The Restaurant at Cassegrain

The Restaurant at Cassegrain Review

This restaurant, in the lovely Cassegrain winery 20-minutes south of Port Macquarie, has changed its name (from Ça Marche) and taken on a French Brasserie feel. Lunches are always popular as diners gaze out over the sundrenched vines. You may want to go all French and start with the escargot (snails cooked in their shells with garlic, parsley butter, and Pernod), or try the local Camden Haven oysters instead. Starters include exceptional confit duck salad and steak tartare, while a hearty main is the local eye fillet of beef with brandy sauce. The vineyard produces a wide variety of wines including Chardonnay, Verdelho, and Rose, and the cellar door offers daily tastings from 9-5. The restaurant will open at night if there are bookings for 20 or more. Pros: lovely French fare, great views. Cons: service can be a little slow; no guarantee the restaurant is open for dinner.