Ladies who lunch

Not that I'm one of those ladies who lunch, but if I were I have found the perfect place to do it! Called 'The River's Edge Cafe', it is a two minute drive out of Longford in the north of Tasmania.

Set in lovely gardens, a 19th century red-brick building has been converted into a sun-filled restaurant with a residence upstairs reached by an attractive wrought-iron circular staircase. And there's a little foot-bridge over a pond at the entrance, so that the building almost seems surrounded by water.

Jane Randall is the friendly cook and she told us her Chicken Bocconcini with Cranberry and a Puff Pastry Crust is a big favourite, as are her risottos - "which I just love to cook" she said.

A beautifully presented cook book written by Jane and interspersed with gorgeous photos of the garden is on sale at the cafe.

The only small quibble I had was that it was dificult to choose a light lunch from the menu on offer and I do suggest that Jane might like to introduce one or two lighter choices.

This is a restaurant just perfect for that grand special occassion lunch or dinner with all the trimmings. There is a very good wine list and the deserts are especially wicked.

Note to self: Must try harder to become a 'lady who lunches'!



How to find The River's Edge Cafe
Open 10 am - 4 pm Thursday to Sunday.
38 Tannery Road, Longford
Website: http://www.riversedgelongford.com.au
Email: jane@riversedgelongford.com.au
Phone: 03 6391 2559