REVIEWED BY DE GROOTS MEDIASurprisingly close to the city centre sits the Yarralumla nursery, with a heritage-listed cottage (once the nursery manager’s house) alongside a tree-lined pond. The cottage now houses the Yarralumla gallery and the Oaks Brasserie, run by Brent and Elaine Richter. The pair provide warm hospitality and are always willing to stop for a friendly chat about the gardens or the gallery, which exhibits local art, crafts and jewellery. The Oaks offers al fresco dining in a large, shady garden area, where children can explore and entertain themselves for hours. Pets are also welcome: there is even a special doggie section on the menu.
The menu is mostly vegetarian, with vegan and wheat-free options clearly delineated. Some of the more popular dishes are the kumera crepes with cheese and coconut chutney, and the garlic prawns with coriander served on a seasonal salad. There are a range of cakes and baked goods for morning or afternoon tea; the Oaks serves only leaf tea and Cosmorex coffee. I’m pleased to find out that all kitchen waste is recycled and composted, and the gardens are watered from the lake, so the impact on the natural habitat is minimal. The warmth of the hosts and the beauty and tranquillity of the gardens make this a perfect haven from the city – in the city.
Sarah Theeboom, January 2007