If you fancy a day trip to the Perth Hills, Hainault at Carmel is a lovely excuse to head for the trees. Tucked away near Kalamunda, this winery and restaurant have recently reopened under new owners, bringing fresh energy to a much-loved spot. It was once the home of the popular Fairbrossen winery (which has now moved down to Margaret River), and it’s great to see the site buzzing again.
The setting is classic Perth Hills – tall gum trees, sweeping vineyard views and that friendly hospitality you get up in the hills. The restaurant overlooks the vines and a sweet little wishing well, which adds a charming touch to the vista. I’d happily sit with a glass of wine and gaze out over the rows of grapes. But we were here to check out the new restaurant…
The seasonal menu at the open, breezy restaurant leans into share plates, pizzas and more substantial meaty dishes. So, you can either nibble your way through a few plates or settle in for a proper long lunch that you don’t have to share. The food is fresh, and tasty. Here’s what the four of us shared:
Smoky pulled lamb sliders with mint yoghurt and house slaw on toasted brioche.
Pork bites glazed in chili plum sauce, finished with coriander and lime were tasty morsels. I enjoyed the tender salt & pepper squid, with aioli and lemon.
We also ordered fennel & beetroot salad with apple carrot, pumpkin seeds, raisins, mint and truffle. This was tasty and we enjoyed the addition of sweet, plum sultanas – a nice contrast to the aniseed like flavour of the fennel.
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Twice-cooked chips with truffle sea salt and rosemary aioli were also good.
Surprisingly, we had a little room for dessert. My mum enjoyed the special of the day – a chocolate tart. While I opted for the only GF dessert option, sorbet. I was delighted that it was served with fresh fruit including mulberries picked from their tree.
My dad enjoyed the affogato – creamy vanilla gelato, with a shot of double espresso poured over.
Being in the hills, it’s an easy escape from the suburbs without having to drive for hours. The Kalamunda region is only 30 minutes from the city, less if you get a good run on Orrong Road. You can combine your visit with a stop in the town of Kalamunda, a wander around a local market (on the weekend), take a scenic wander through a national park, or why not visit a few more boutique cellar doors on the Bickley Valley Wine Trail?
If you’re looking for a relaxed outing with good food, wine and peaceful views, Hainault at Carmel is a lovely choice – especially if you remember the old Fairbrossen days and are curious to see what’s new.
Find Hainault at Carmel at 51 Carmel Rd, Carmel.
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