Lake House
Address: King St, Daylesford, Victoria 3460
Phone: 03 5348 3329
Cuisine:
Contemporary
Web: lakehouse.com.au
16.5/20

Overview
Just as winemakers talk about terroir - the way the soil of a particular site speaks through its wine - the lovely dining room here is an expression of place. It's airy, comfortable, with a central fireplace, upholstered chairs and glimpses of the lake. Co-owner Allan Wolf-Tasker's paintings of revelry line the walls, while white-clothed tables are set with plates painted by the same artist. Whether you choose set menus of two or three courses, or opt for a degustation, expect regional flavours and artful, earthy yet delicate combinations. Smoked Skipton eel in Istra pancetta with heirloom beetroot remoulade is one such dish; boned, medium-rare quail in tempura-crisped nori, accompanied by a delicate mushroom-topped custard, is another. Luxury ingredients appear here and there: chicken (leg, breast, rolled thigh) may come with decadent foie gras croquettes. Desserts might pair lemon and licorice, and precede gorgeous petits fours. Floor staff are highly skilled but do not stand on ceremony.
Open Daily noon–3pm, 6.30pm–late
Typical prices Fixed-price dinner menus $74–$130 (2–8 courses); lunches from $50
Cards DC AE MC V Eftpos
Wine Long, deep list with strong European presence
Owners Alla, Allan & Larissa Wolf-Tasker
Chefs Alla Wolf-Tasker & David Green
Seats 100; outdoor seating; private room; bar
And … Try the luxurious accommodation and on-site spa.