The Guide

I have one. Finally. Yesterday, I launched myself into Cameron's Newsagency in Bowral (the major newsagent of the Highlands) and looked in vain for the Good Food Guide (GFG). "Sorry, love, we haven't sold it for two or three years," I was told, "Try next door." So I hung around like a junkie at the front door of the two booksellers (conveniently next to each other, as well as the newsagent) until they opened. As you all know, the result of those inquiries was two negatives. Hence my harrumphing yesterday.

This morning, a reliable source (Melinda from Red Olive: featured in the GFG, also desperately searching for a copy) told me that the truck carrying the blessed books broke down yesterday on its way to the Highlands. Wouldn't you know?

So today (after examining The Journeyman's copy over coffee with re-Hatted chef Tim Pratt), I returned to the booksellers. I was told that their copies had been "lost", presumably on the felled transportation vehicle. "But you can go next door. They have it," the kind salesperson said. Do we all remember what is next door? Oh yes: the newsagent, which miraculously side-stepped the failed Highlands' delivery to receive the GFG, which they weren't stocking anymore.

Anyone for a semi-rural adventure in book-buying? Anyhow, I have digressed. This is really meant to be about the contents of the GFG...

Aside from our previously mentioned Hat-winners (the Journeyman and Katers, both with 15/20), the Highlands section of the GFG features some other very impressive reviews. In total, 13 local establishments were deemed worthy of a review (you must score 12/20 or more to achieve a full review). Most excitingly, there were five new entries into the Guide this year, proving that the Highlands is truly evolving into a food destination. Our new local entries were The Black Swan (13.5/20), Post Cafe and Bar (13/20), Red Olive (12.5/20), Stones (13/20) and Vida (13/20). My warmest congratulations to you all, and I look forward to reading about you again in the 2011 Guide!

Our other contributions to the fine standard of dining in NSW were Centennial Vineyards Restaurant (13/20), Esco Pazzo (13/20), Josh's Cafe (13/20), Onesta Cucina (13.5/20) and Willow Vale Mill (13/20). A repeat appearance in the guide is an indication of a great standard maintained, and congratulations to you all. Unfortunately, Eschalot (14.5/20) lost their Chef's Hat this year, but Richard received a very optimistic and positive review, and we all look forward to the imminent, and proper, return of said Hat.

The Highlands had another 10 cafes/restaurants receive mention in the Guide, as well as a large selection of provedores, our great markets, and Centennial and Blue Metal Vineyards. We have much to be proud of as a region. I urge you to pick up a copy of the GFG, and to go and experience the wonderful food and wine our region has to offer. There is no shortage of splendid places to visit in the Highlands; the GFG covers but a few. Support our local "growers" and "sellers" and "cookers", and help them continue to represent us so inspiringly on the increasingly competitive national stage.