I’ve dined many times in The Wintergarden Restaurant at the Hydro Majestic and it seems to be improving with age, which is quite a feat considering the iconic historic hotel which is situated at Medlow Bath in the Blue Mountains, was opened over 100 years ago.
The Hydro Majestic is one of the grand old ladies of the Blue Mountains and was the vision of retail baron, Mark Foy and was originally designed to be a health spa. Over the years, the Hydro Majestic has undergone many transformations including being used as a hospital for American casualties during World War II, and a complete restoration which saw it reopen in 2014, as magnificent as ever but with all the inclusions of what you would expect from a five star hotel.
The Wintergarden Restaurant, is the centrepiece of the Hydro Majestic, featuring spectacular, panoramic views overlooking the Megalong Valley.
Afternoon High Tea
Their famous Afternoon High Tea, which I have indulged in quite a few times is a wonderful way to take in the view, while enjoying a glass of French champagne of Australian sparkling wine. They offer an array of menus for the high tea, including a Traditional serving of sandwiches, homemade pastries and fluffy, light scones, or my favourite the Eastern which includes delights such as dumplings, rice paper rolls and Eastern desserts. There’s also a Gluten Free version and for those under the age of twelve, a petite Children’s version of the high tea.
Fine Dining
Dinner at The Wintergarden is a grand affair and one to be savoured. The hatted restaurant provides a menu with suggested wine pairings and includes fresh seasonal and locally sourced produce. Vegetarian and other dietary requirements are catered for.
You can select either two or three courses for a set price with Saturday offering a three course set price only. When there is a set menu, I generally go for a main and dessert, whereas my dining partner will choose the entree and main. Inevitably, we end up sharing the entree and dessert.
For entree we shared the Seared Scallops served with Stuffed Squid, Kohlrabi, Cauliflower Cream and a Champagne Beurre Blanc. The scallops were beautifully cooked – succulent and plump, and the stuffed squid was a lovely accompaniment.
My dining partner chose the Grass Fed Riverina Lamb Variation for main, it was lightly coated with Moroccan Spices and matched with Spring Peas and Minted Zucchini Spaghetti. The lamb, served medium rare was a lovely shade of pink. On a previous occasion I enjoyed the lamb, so I selected the Char Grilled Angus Tenderloin which came with a lovely Zucchini Blossom, Corn Puree and to spice it up a little a Chilli Jus. The meat was tender and juicy, and the chilli had just the right amount of heat.
The last time I dined at The Wintergarden, I indulged in the Feijoa and Apple for dessert, so this time I selected the Guanaja 70% and Mandarin Gateau. It was indulgent with Candied Hazelnut, Hazelnut Sponge and yummy Tonka Bean Ice Cream.
Each time I dine at The Wintergarden is better than the last and I find myself looking forward to the next time I have the opportunity to indulge. Bookings are essential, weekends are busy with in house guests as well as locals enjoying an evening out. Afternoon High Tea is particularly a favourite with many, especially during holiday periods or special occasions such as Mothers Day. If you find yourself enjoying a weekend in the Blue Mountains, be sure to include a meal at The Wintergarden, you won’t be disappointed.
To find out about other great places to visit in the Blue Mountains, check out our articles here.
