Hardy’s Verandah review, Adelaide Hills best restaurants | delicious.SA: Regional 50

While the building itself may be steeped in history, Hardy’s Verandah Restaurant provides a contemporary dining experience to rival the best we have.

Wagyu beef, scallop, pearl onion from Hardy's Verandah Restaurant, Mt Lofty House.

Mount Lofty House, 1 Mawson Dr, Crafers

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hardysverandah.com.au

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You can almost hear the ghostly clinking glasses and giddy laughter as the who’s who of 1850s Adelaide’s let their hair down.

Mount Lofty House was renowned for its lavish parties and starting with a drink in its new Champagne Lounge before eating is guaranteed to tap into a little of that celebratory spirit.

While the building itself may be steeped in history, albeit brilliantly restored and reimagined by the current owners, HVR provides a contemporary dining experience to rival the best we have.

Chef Jin Choi has found the sweet spot that taps into both his Korean heritage and the cornucopia of fine produce that can be found through the Hills and beyond.

Intricately scored calamari tubes, for instance, are seared for a second or two before placing on an almond and anchovy puree.

King George whiting comes with kohlrabi and a mustard and soy dressing that is inspired by a recipe that is used in many Korean homes.

A signature beef dish contrasts rare slices of strip loin with a piece of Mayura Station brisket slow-cooked to the texture of a savoury fudge.

Finish the night back down in the cigar lounge or, even better, book for a night in the stunning Sequoia suites where you can also choose to have your meal in the room with butler service and a virtual sommelier on call.

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• Hours: L Sun D Daily 
• Bill: Four courses: $125. Seven courses: $185
• Wine: Wine list
• Chef: Jin Choi