A Classic Winter Dinner in Beautiful Berry

Some evenings have a certain magic about them — the perfect combination of setting, menu, and company.

Berry is one of our favourite places to cook. Its charm lies in its heritage architecture, tree-lined streets, and access to outstanding local produce. On this crisp winter night, the setting could not have been more fitting for a menu steeped in classic European flavours.

The Menu – Timeless, Elegant, and Seasonal

For this intimate dinner of six guests, we curated a menu that celebrated traditional dishes, executed with precision and care, and elevated by the outstanding produce of the South Coast.

Canapés

  • South Coast Kingfish – Incredibly fresh, served with a bright chilli ponzu and a delicate hit of yuzu kosho for depth and balance.

  • Oysters – Opened to order, plump, briny, and dressed with a classic mignonette sauce to enhance their natural sweetness.

Entrée

  • Pâté de Campagne – A rustic French country terrine, rich and savoury, paired with our house-made country-style relish.

  • Vitello Tonnato – Poached veal tenderloin with local tuna, silky mayonnaise, capers, and chives — a dish that has graced Italian tables for centuries.

Main

  • Beef Wellington – Golden pastry encasing tender beef fillet, rich mushroom duxelles, and prosciutto, finished with a glossy jus.

  • Bouillabaisse – A saffron-infused seafood stew that captures the essence of the French Mediterranean coast.

Sides

  • Potato Gratin – Creamy layers of potato with just the right hint of garlic.

  • Grilled Mushrooms – Smoky and earthy, the perfect companion to the beef.

  • Sautéed Seasonal Greens – Lightly cooked to preserve freshness and colour.

Dessert

  • Tarte au Citron – A classic French lemon tart, bright and tangy, served with a generous dollop of Chantilly cream.

  • Crème Brûlée – Silky custard beneath a perfectly caramelised sugar top.

A Warm Winter Gathering

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. The evening moved at a relaxed pace, each course sparking conversation and delight. The freshness of the South Coast kingfish, the rustic charm of the pâté de campagne, and the indulgence of the lemon tart were standouts of the night — all paired with fine wines chosen by the host.

By the time the last spoonful of crème brûlée was enjoyed, the table was filled with the kind of laughter and contentment that only comes from sharing good food in good company.

Why We Love Cooking in Berry

Berry’s unique blend of charm, hospitality, and access to premium local produce makes it a perfect setting for private dining. Whether in a heritage home or a modern retreat, this beautiful South Coast town offers the ideal backdrop for unforgettable meals.

If you’re looking to create an evening of classic elegance in Berry or the Southern Highlands, Bowral Private Chef can bring the restaurant experience to your table — complete with menus that celebrate both tradition and the finest seasonal produce.