The restaurant doors at Gippsland’s new Carrajung Estate will open this Friday, March 31, with bookings for the renovated cabin, ‘The Nest’, beginning in April.
Carrajung Estate is the custodian of the old Tom’s Cap winery, a 40-hectare property surrounded by the forests of the Strzelecki Ranges, the Ninety Mile Beach at Woodside, and the Tarra Bulga National Park.
The property, which currently features five individual cabins, has been run by Ann and Graham Morris under the Tom’s Cap brand for the past 30 years.
Phase one opening includes the restaurant and renovation of one of the cabins, The Nest, which can be booked through the Carrajung website.
This intimate space has long been a favourite for guests, offering a perfect getaway with views of the rolling hills, and now, with a full makeover, Ann and Graham maintain The Nest is more inviting than ever.
The restaurant will be led by the head chef, Patrick Haney, and will showcase the flavours of the region’s bounty, from heirloom vegetables to pasture-raised meats and artisanal cheeses.
Mr Haney has more than 20 years of culinary experience, honing his skills across a collection of US and Australian kitchens, including Sydney’s Opera Bar and Cruise Bar’s Dinner in the Sky and, most recently, The Growers in Shoalhaven.
Mr Haney has developed a style that blends traditional techniques with contemporary twists and global influences throughout his career. His dishes focus on bold flavours, vibrant colours, and elegant presentation.
The first release of Carrajung Estate wines will be served as part of the restaurant opening, which is a culmination of two years of vine management between Carrajung Estate co-founder Adrian Critchlow, Tom’s Cap founder Graham Morris and Marcus Satchell, an award-winning Gippsland winemaker of Inverloch’s Dirty Three Wines fame. His wines include Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.
The first phase opening of Carrajung Estate is the start of an ambitious vision by Ivy Huang and business partner Rebeka Morgan of BuildHer Collective, together with Rebeka’s husband, John Morgan of Beirin Projects, to create a one-of-a-kind travel destination in the heart of Gippsland.
“With an emphasis on seasonality and sustainability, our dishes feature fresh ingredients sourced directly from nearby farms that celebrate the natural beauty and culinary richness of Gippsland,” Ms Huang said.
“Through our food, we want to share these growers’ stories.”
From March 31, guests can enjoy an on-site wine tasting at the cellar door and lunch at the restaurant before spending the afternoon admiring the vines and interacting with a variety of local Carrajung Estate residents – from friendly alpacas, pigs and chickens to curious goats.
Further information can be found at carrajung.com.au or by calling 03 5194 2215.
