Coombe - the Melba Estate

Coombe, which was once the home of Dame Nellie Melba, boasts award winning wines, luscious gardens and a delightful restaurant.

Located within the restored motor house and historic clock tower, the restaurant offers a menu inspired by the seasons and made using locally sourced produce.

Ceiling to floor windows affords the dining room with plenty of natural light and views of the landscaped courtyard and gardens.

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Neil Cunningham, the kitchen is in safe hands. Cunningham’s impressive resume includes stints at Michelin Star restaurants and he was even a sous chef to the Crown Prince of Bahrain. His wealth of experience translates into an elegant menu which we absolutely loved tasting our way through.

The chargrilled quail was a stunning starter. The quail was cooked to a rarely found perfection with the accompanying almond skordalia, cracked wheat, smoked almond and king brown mushrooms adding an amazing depth of flavour.

The grilled South Australian octopus served with almond and saffron aioli, confit tomato, oregano and olive was similarly beautiful. The octopus was incredibly tender while retaining a robust structure courtesy of being expertly cooked.

For mains, brace of spring lamb was a winner. Simple, yet simply beautiful. This was a heart-warming dish that shone from the care in its preparation. The lamb was roasted to a tender and juicy pink and was exceedingly flavoursome and "melt in the mouth". The soft texture of the hearty eggplant caponata echoed the tender lamb while the olives added the perfect level of salinity to the dish.

Whatever you do, save room for dessert and indulge in the quince and frangipane tart - think melt-in-your-mouth pastry with a crumbly filling over a comforting blanket of gloriously sticky sweet raisin compote, finished with luxurious walnut ice cream. Simply lovely.

Housed within an iconic location with stunning views, a delicious menu and great service, Coombe offers a compelling proposition.

Location: 673-675 Maroondah Hwy, Coldstream

Phone: (03) 9739 0173

Link: coombeyarravalley.com.au