PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAFoodies and wine lovers of Perth have been abuzz with excitement since the 2008 opening of Kate Lamont’s newest venture in Cottesloe. Lamont’s Wine Store may sound like an upmarket wine cellar but it has so much more to offer. Operated in the classic “enotica” fashion (Italian term meaning a hub for wine and food), it’s a sparkling new addition to the already sexy suburb of Cottesloe. Just like all their other venues, the Lamont family spare no expense when it comes to decorating their restaurant interiors. Ultra-stylish furnishings, warm colours and plenty of wine racks create an attractive setting indeed, but it’s no surprise really, I’m yet to see anything tacky linked to the Lamont name. It’s all class, from the professional staff to the extensive range of local, national and international wines complemented by a delicious tapas-style menu.
Being a big fan of Kate Lamont’s work in the kitchen, I can certainly say the menu here is up to her usual impeccable standard. As always, Kate selects the best in local produce to come up with tempting little morsels like the fried marron with pepper and garlic dust. Or there’s the simplicity of dishes like the saffron chips contrasted with the oh-so-chic macaroons imported from Paris. Ok, they may not be local, but these sweet tasty treats are well worth sampling. When choosing wine, just ask the waitstaff for their suggestions of suitable styles to match your menu selection – these sommeliers certainly know their drops. As expected, the crowd this venue draws is understandably well-to-do but don’t let that scare you from visiting this fabulous new hotspot. I have visions of our glorious spring weather coupled with a glass of crispy clear Chenin Blanc and a few of those prawns…
Karen Bilsby