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PERIDOT LAKE ESTATE IS NOW CLOSED (AUG 2009)

HISTORICAL:
Nestled between Red Hill and Arthur's Seat in the hinterland of Melbourne's playground, the Mornington Peninsula you will find Peridot Estate in Main Ridge. No longer operating as a winery, it is run as a picturesque restaurant by the Tilley family.

With it's winding “country lane” approach and lush rural beauty it is being discovered by those seeking something a little less crowded, more peaceful and for those who are adventurous enough to turn off Arthur's Seat or Purves Rd, some destinations yet to be explored. Peridot is one of those.

Named after the green gemstone and for its serene, spring fed lake that is exactly that colour at the bottom of the 25acre property, Peridot is certainly a little gem. Originally a dairy, then tea rooms with trout fishing and a vineyard built by entrepreneurial John Brae, the property was transformed into a charming and funky Greek Tavern by the Stoios family about 4 years ago. Paving the way with deliciously simple, traditional Greek food and frendly family service Peridot Restaurant has received consecutive “Reviewed and Recommended” mentions in the Age Good Food Guide in ‘06 and ‘07.

Since Jane Tilley and her family took over in October last year they have built upon this great reputation and have recently won a Regional award for Excellence as a European Restaurant.

The service and ambience are relaxed and friendly. The food is simple, rustic and interesting, focussing on quality, locally sourced ingredients that are showcased by uncluttered and loving preparation. We pick from the garden to enhance the fresh flavours of the food and soon to be developed will be our own organic trout and salmon that we will harvest for the table or for sale. We have a great selection of local wines and some from other Victorian regions to add variety.

The views from the dining deck in summer stretch across the gorgeous valley of Splitters Creek to Arthur's Seat and beyond to the waters of the Bass Strait. The sunsets are spectacand the wildlife is always entertaining. Wedge tailed eagles soar through the valley and are often accompanied by black cockatoos, kestrels and peregrine falcons. The resident magpies and ibis strut through the vineyard and honeyeaters, parrots and wattlebirds adorn the fruit trees in the delightful garden setting. There's the cutest cubby house for the kids and in winter the double-sided stone fireplace creates a cosy spot to join family and friends in dining on our fabulous food or enjoying a coffee, dessert or to simply lounge by the fire on our comfy couches.

Live music has become part of the Peridot experience so be sure to check the gig guide for what's on next.


Opening hours: Friday, Saturday and Sunday lunches and Friday and Saturday dinners.

Extended trading hours on long weekends, school and public holidays.



Kali Orexi!

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