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.
“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.
“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.
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
