LOCATION
Werribee, 20 minutes drive from the CBD
DETAILS
The contemporary restaurant and bar at one of Australia's most luxurious boutique hotels, The Mansion Hotel at Werribee Park, is being embraced by gourmets, food lovers, and those who enjoy the experience of dining well. With breathtaking views overlooking the formal gardens of Werribee Park, Joseph's Restaurant & Bar provide a relaxed and luxurious atmosphere where every aspect of food and service is carefully and professionaly considered.
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Joseph's Executive Chef Paul Raynor presents modern Euro-inspired cuisine to complement an extensive wine list featuring many superb premium varieties. Joseph's also hosts a range of innovative food and wine events throughout the year and host special lunches and dinners for Mother's Day, Christmas, New Year, and Valentine's Day.
Profiled by de Groots Media
Joseph’s, the modern restaurant for Sofitel Mansion and Spa, has many things going for it: the historic former seminary building, sympathetically transformed; the neighbouring 19th century Chirnside family mansion; the view over the gardens with its sculptures; and its proximity to Werribee Zoo, Shadowfax winery, and the State Rose Gardens. Throw in contemporary food and a good wine list, and it makes a great package.
Chef Paul Raynor’s menu is very much in keeping with the restaurant, blending old and new by using classic French techniques and a contemporary approach. The food often has Asian influences, but is always clear-flavoured and very attractively presented. He’s got a great hand with fish – try the coriander-crusted seared yellowfin tuna, with the bright jewel-like colours of the fish and the balanced textures of soft fish and salad (often shiitake mushroom). The Barossa Valley chicken on truffled mash and wild mushroom jus is also a winner. The dining room, like the hotel, makes things easy. At lunch (except Sundays) there’s an excellent $29.50 fixed-price two-course lunch, a tasting menu for dinner, and a great afternoon tea in the lounge at weekends. Go for a spa treatment and stay for lunch or a wander through the gardens, and have dinner, a good sleep, and breakfast.
Rita Erlich, August 2007
