If you’re going to call yourself an ‘estate’, you’d better bring your A-game on the scenic front. Fortunately, when it comes to destination eating, this historic spot amongst the orchards and the vineyards, in an area nineties Canberra kids will always remember as picturesque Pialligo, delivers. Right now their fine diner, Farmhouse Restaurant, is closed for renovation – but you won’t mind when you score a table in the pretty Garden Pavilions. This more relaxed eatery serves hearty comfort food with plenty of housemade charcuterie, thanks to the Pialligo Estate Smokehouse.
Order their bacon – it’s twice been awarded Australia’s best, and you can get it on the side with anything you like at breakfast. Lunch and dinner are mod-Oz with a loosely Italian twist. Once again, there are plenty of Smokehouse specials – cold smoked salmon, chorizo and mixed plates of meats – plus herbs, tomatoes and veggies all grown on site. Those fruit trees all around the estate mean this is a place where you save room for dessert. Specifically the chocolate tart with nectarines – when they’re in season.
If you’re looking for an experience that’s a little more elevated, the estate hosts frequent dining events, like truffle dinners in winter, Sunday roasts and in the warmer months, and lunches out in the orchards, amongst the trees.
