SOUTHERN FOREST CULINARY JOURNEY – SPECIAL TRUFFLE EDITION

After breakfast, we will commence our agricultural knowledge of the Southern Forests area with a tour of our local marron and trout farm. Then we visit a local orchard, one of the largest in Western Australia, and learn of the developing varieties that are constantly changing for consumer demands. Lunch today is a very special private lunch with Chef Deb at “Sooma” Restaurant. Deb, one of our most unique chefs, will indulge you in a feast of Marron & Trout displaying her creative flair on our local produce.

Following lunch, we take a tour of 3 Ryan’s egg farm. The Ryan’s are one of the traditional farmers of the area cultivating a range of our stable vegetables.

This evening we are off to Peos Estate where we will meet Vic and Bente who will be our hosts for the evening. Enjoy a casual chat with Vic and sample his wines before indulging in a cultural feast in a unique facility overlooking the vineyard with a glass of complimentary wine in hand.

After breakfast we head off to visit the locals that sort and pack our produce ready for delivery to retailers. We then move on to lunch with Chef Raj at Cilantros Restaurant where he will display his Indian heritage in our local produce. (Private lunch)

The afternoon will see us call in to local producers where you will meet some of the characters that farm the region and sample their produce, including an opportunity to roast some fresh chestnuts and of course purchase some fresh produce.

A short break to refresh at our hotel before heading off to Tall Timbers Restaurant, where you have an opportunity to experience over twenty wines which are all produced in the Southern Forests area with a tapas dinner showcasing the local produce.

We commence the day with a continental breakfast and then meander into Manjimup to discover the Manjimup Heritage Park, which provides a unique experience that combines both museums and recreational activities in the same place.

Guided entry to all three museums is included in your tour of the Heritage Park precinct. After lunch we will head off for a truffle hunting adventure and discover the alluring story Australian black truffles (tuber melanosporum or Périgord truffle) and how they came to be sought after by the world’s best chefs.

The Booth family take us for a wander amongst the hazelnut and oak trees in their orchard and engage the services of Truffle dogs Molly, Gidgee and Max who will lead us through the trees as they nose out the ripest of black truffles. Experience the excitement of digging up a truffle yourself: the heady aroma of truffle the moment it is unearthed is unforgettable. You will have the opportunity to purchase a truffle and discover the joy of cooking at home with this remarkable ingredient.

On our return travels we will call in to a local winery and prepare your tastebuds for the evening decadence ahead, and possibly pick up some wine to enjoy with your evening meal.

Dinner will be a delight for your senses where you will be treated to a private six course Truffle exclusive dining experience with Chef Joe Ditri.

After coming from Northcliffe, Joe moved to Perth and was a chef at “Fraser’s Restaurant” in Kings Park for 16 years. During this time Joe was awarded 2 gold medals at the “Restaurant of Champions” and in 2006 was awarded the “Western Australian Young Chef of the Year”. After then spending 3 years as head chef at Brika’s Restaurant in Perth, Joe decided to move back to Manjimup to be closer to family and the fresh produce and food of the area which inspired his original journey.

After a hearty cooked breakfast on the last day, we have time for one last hidden Gem before our time together ends. Board the coach and relax as we make our way back to Kings. Upon arrival at Kings Park your driver will be waiting to take you safely home.