Hunter WOW!

Finally! About time! At last!

The culinary desert has an oasis.

The Hunter has a top-notch restaurant

Last weekend was the “soft” opening of esca “bimbadgen”, the new restaurant, built from scratch at the Bimbadgen Estate. Esca apparently stands for “food” according to the Latin dictionary. It really should stand for fabulous food, fantastic views and a formidably beautiful space.

The modern, airy, bright and comfortable space with one of the best views in the Hunter puts you into the right frame of mind to sample the fare. The menu is extremely approachable and the wine list is Hunter only, with little or no mark-ups. The food is top-notch, inventive, beautifully plated, tasty and an absolute joy to eat. First class produce combined with solid craft and the aromas of wood-charred meat do Mark Armstrong proud. His touch is evident everywhere. Great attention to detail, good, friendly service and VERY reasonable prices.

The “Spaghetti of Blue Swimmer Crab, Preserved Lemon, Parsley and Eschalots” is one of the best pasta dishes I have ever tasted. Don’t you dare take it off the menu.

Congratulations to Mark Armstrong, Kees van de Scheur, the management and the staff at Bimbadgen Estate for building a culinary oasis in the Hunter!

Score: 7/10

For more information and bookings:

Bimbadgen Estate Winery

Lot 21 McDonalds Road

Pokolbin NSW 2321

Tel.: 02 4998 7486

Fax.: 02 4998 7732

Web: www.bimbadgen.com.au