It’s 1863 and “The Star & Garter” Inn is packed with workers cooling off with glasses of amber nectar, having a yarn to a mate. Given its prime position at the crossing point for a number of aboriginal bush tracks, coldies are always in demand.
Fast forward 150 years with more room makeovers than The Block, The Cook House takes its moment in history taking this grand sandstone Inn back to its roots following recent stints as Restaurant Balzac and Montpellier House.
Say hello to original beams, cosy arm chairs, Persian rugs and a long bar lined with boutique taps such as Young Henrys and Riverside 69. Wine lovers will kick back with a great line up from Gosset to Centennial Shiraz Viognier.
The team (ex Oscillate Wildly, Ananas, Carlisle Castle and Union hotels) deliver gastro pub delights of silky lamb croquettes, a not to be missed confit chicken sandwich, crispy skin salmon in chardonnay vinegar and house made gnocchi with roast pumpkin and burnt butter. Steaks frequently fly out from the kitchen with more frequency than a Qantas jet.
It’s comforting to know that the good things in life don’t change much; a homely venue, friendly service, great tucker and range of drinks to tickle your fancy.
The Cook House is a great watering hole (the bonus being you won’t need to flag down a horse to get you home).
The Cook House
141 Belmore Road, Randwick, 2037
Mon – Thur 4pm to midnight, Fri-Sat 12 noon to midnight, Sun 12 noon to 10pm
