单选题 Nature's Pantry: a Taste of Country-style
Cooking
By James Morrison
Don't let the very 1970s style name of this place discourage you. What it has to offer is a simple menu with a French and Italian emphasis, but the food is put together with the freshest of ingredients and a great deal of imagination. A dinner at Nature's Pantry really is worth the drive (it's around 40 minutes from downtown Brisbane). Located in a quiet, leafy neighborhood, you will be treated to stunning views of the city.
Last Thursday was a fine evening, so we took our seats on the deck. The décor is pleasant and not at all overpowering, and the welcome was friendly and efficient. So far so good. My partner and I opted for a shared tray of appetizers. This was a beautifully presented selection of small quiches, slices of salami, and smoked meats served with the freshest of fresh tomato slices and whole basil leaves and a variety of olives.
Now confident in the chef's competence, we selected a set menu at $40 per head, which included wine. My partner chose a seafood soup as an entrée. There were plenty of generous pieces of crab, shrimp, and fish, all combined in a rich and creamy sauce once again lifted by fresh herbs. I had a wonderful slice of meatloaf served with crisp broccoli.
AS a main course, I could not resist the fillet steak, which was cooked to perfection and accompanied by a light sauce of cracked pepper, wine, and cream. My partner chose the veal served with a mushroom sauce. The chef's choice of wines to accompany these dishes was excellent. My partner and I were both reduced to silence by the richness of the flavors. There is no finer compliment to make about a meal!
By now we were simply too overwhelmed by the generous servings of rich food even to consider the desserts on offer, but we certainly intend to go back to sample them in the not-too distant future! This restaurant is highly recommended.
Nature's Pantry is located at 101 Cerce Circle, Belgrave. Open every evening from 6:30 p.m. Reservations are essential at 678-8888.