The mansion serving nouvelle cuisine and joie de vivre in the hinterland

Words Emily Thomson | Photos Supplied

Perched gracefully over the Tweed River and nestled amongst the lush greenery and cane fields of the Murwillumbah hinterland lies a century’s old colonial mansion, home to the sumptuous Tweed River House Bar & Bistro.

From its exotic patterned wallpaper, grand dining room chandelier, chic cane furniture to its ebony, ivory and green colour palette – every inch of the Tweed River House design and décor has been carefully curated to great effect, creating a plantation-era dining experience that is not only delicious, but looks wonderful as well.

Originally established in 1907, the historic homestead was lovingly restored over a nine-month period with the noble intention of preserving all of its former majesty.

Tweed River House co-owner and creative director Gregory Lording, having recently retired from corporate life, says he had always admired the old-world charm and location of the beautiful house.

“While walking past one day, I noticed a ‘for sale’ sign and all of a sudden the stars aligned and we purchased the building,” says Gregory.

“Having spent many summers holidaying in Provence, I felt inspired to create a destination dining experience based on having such a beautiful location, paired with exceptional food and wine with warm, friendly and efficient service.

“Put simply, we want people to feel as though they have stepped back to dine in a gentler time and pace.”

Opening its doors in October, Tweed River House received its first Chef Hat Award in the coveted 2022 Australian Good Food Guide just four months later – and it’s easy to see why.

Executive chef Joseph McGrattan has curated a locally sourced and Provencal-inspired menu which shines a culinary spotlight on the abundant Northern Rivers region with the finest, hand-selected ingredients of the season.

“We celebrate the best of the Northern Rivers’ growers, farmers, fishermen and providores, on a seasonal journey, as we recreate the great nouvelle cuisine of the provinces of France,” says Gregory.

“Chef Joseph combines his gastronomic talents garnered from his classical European training in Michelin restaurants, with his love for local fresh produce to create a delectable contemporary culinary experience.”

Fusing Australian flavours with local ingredients and French techniques, the restaurant offers prix fixe 2, 3, 5 and 9-course degustation menus served under the patterned pressed metal ceiling of the dining room or outside on the exterior river terrace which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

For larger groups, there’s also the elegant ten-seater private dining room featuring a magnificent chandelier centerpiece.

When it comes to the ever-evolving menu selections, the Australian Good Food Guide recommends starting with the grilled Hervey Bay scallops with salumi nduja butter, lemon, parsley, crumb and ink aioli.

Follow with the pink beef rump accompanied by smoked mash, daube croquette, sautéed mushrooms, Bordelaise and pickled carrot.

For dessert, opt for the lemon aspen and honey cake with aspen ice cream, rum and finger lime cream cheese mousse and gingerbread crumble.

The wine list consists of fine vintages sourced from famous regions of France and iconic Australian producers who showcase some of the oldest vines in the world, as well as emerging producers focused on organic farming and lo-fi winemaking.

Whether having a long lunch with friends, a decadent degustation dinner or a sunset hand-crafted cocktail, Tweed River House has something special for every discerning palate, including plenty of vegetarian options and an entire vegan-friendly menu with a choice of robustly flavoured entrees, mains and desserts.

Tweed River House is open for lunch from Thursday to Sunday, and dinner on Friday and Saturday nights.

Simply head inland for 30 minutes from Coolangatta to the beautiful Murwillumbah hinterland in the shadow of the Wollumbin and Mt Warning ranges.

For further details, visit www.tweedriverhouse.com.au