Stefano’s at The Grand needs no introduction here in Victoria. Regional produce, a superb chef and an unbeatable location
Alas with a four year old I was not quite ready to try the fine dining experience.
So, instead of Stefano’s, we, i.e. I, decided to try Seasons (also at The Grand) instead. What a delightful surprise. Arriving with no expectations – other than it be open – was probably a good thing. But even if we hadn’t this place was sure to please.
One thing regional restaurants do incredibly well is finesse the “dining with children” experience to make it pleasant for everyone: a separate childrens’ menu, attentive staff, great locally sourced food and unbeatable ambience.
Seasons was no exception. touted as an “elegant but relaxed” dining establishemnt, Mr X ordered pasta (tonight a fettucine – just perfect as he was in a rather slurpy mood) with a tomato sauce and parmesan. I was skeptical having seen this concoction dished out in the city – and been not the least impressed – but this was something else. Fresh pasta, served at just the right temperature, buried in a generous dollop of delicious tomato sugo – fresh and delicious.
I ordered the salt and pepper squid – which was good – but had nothing on the pasta on the kids’ menu.
Another unexpected surprise was the testimonial plates. These hang pride of place near the bar. As well as the usual raft of soapie starlets and lifestyle show hosts, the plates include tributes from Geoff – the sleepy Wiggle, Wags the Dog and Dorothy the Dinosour. You can’t imagine my son’s excitement to learn that he was dining in the same establishment as these stars. The enthusiasm with which he completed his dinner was unbelievable.
He was a little disappointed to hear that the waitress that was serving us had not been working at the Restaurant at the time his idols had dined here. But he did take great delight in her story of sitting next to Geoff on the plane to Mildura only to have him – you guessed it – fall asleep.
What: Seasons
When: Lunch 12-2.30pm Friday and Saturday, Dinner from 6pm Monday to Saturday
Where: The Grand Hotel, Cnr Seventh Street and Langtree Avenue, Mildura, Victoria
Cost: Mains $26-$30, Kids Meals $10 (or $16 for Rib eye)
Website: http://www.seasonsmildura.com.au/public/
On the go kid in tow 