Thursday, March 17, 2022

Eat up! The best restaurants in Denmark WA

Denmark is a hidden gem, quietly waiting to be explored. It’s the pretty forest-meets-the-sea scenery that would be at home in the pages of a cosy book; the affable locals; the truly world-class wine and food; and it’s the crispest, cleanest air filling your lungs. Someone should really write a fairy tale based in this corner of the world.

Even though it’s a small town, it punches well above its weight in the foodie stakes, with several fantastic eateries you simply must visit. And don’t forget, the annual gourmet food-fest Taste Great Southern is back in this May, with Denmark hosting several events.

The top five: the best restaurants in Denmark WA

The Lake House

It’s not hard to imagine a romantic flick being filmed here. Surrounded by dense green woodland, a peaceful lake in front, and the restaurant itself giving off major lodge-like vibes, you’ll feel comfy and warm like a big old hug. Book for lunch and enjoy one of their famous platters (four to choose from, and you can select for how many people/how many courses) or else opt for morning or afternoon tea with fluffy scones, or a picnic hamper down by the lake.

The Lake House

The Lake House, Denmark

Pepper & Salt

For a special fine dining meal, you cannot go past Pepper & Salt. We mean it. For starters, the beautiful vista of rolling hills and sweeping vineyards is something to behold. Then you’re treated to what might just be one of the best meals of your life under the steady hand of chef Silas Masih. His Fijian-Indian heritage mixed with superb Great Southern produce is a match made in heaven. Do yourself a favour and check out the menu online.

Pepper & Salt

Pepper + Salt, marron.

The Dam

This is the new kid on the block in Denmark and has already been wowing guests left, right, and centre. Cradled against William Bay National Park and overlooking a dam, this eatery is all about seasonal produce and living alongside nature. Grab yourself a seltzer or a sublime cocktail and let your mind float free. Dine on dishes like roasted local marron, beef carpaccio, and pistachio galette under the lofty, airy ceilings. You can also sit outdoors and bring your furry friends.

The Dam

The Dam, Denmark. Photograph by Zoe Van Zanten.

Mrs Jones Cafe

You can’t go on holiday and miss out on a lazy brunch or two. Sacrilege! This homely local café has great coffee and all-day breakfast, so no need to jump out of bed early. Tuck into thick Scotch pancakes, bubble and squeak croquettes, and creamy smoothies loaded with local fruit and veg. While it’s lovely and tastefully decorated inside, if the weather is pleasant, sit out on the deck with your skin warmed by the sun and birds nearby singing a sweet tune.

Mrs Jones Cafe

Mrs Jones Cafe, Denmark

Boston Brewing Co.

One of WA’s best breweries is right here in Denmark. With a different ambiance to the other establishments on our list, the moody indoor vibe feels like a true brewhouse where lots of laughs and plenty of communal eating and drinking take place. There’s loads of room outdoors under the umbrellas, with a playground for the littlies, and a gorgeous view of bushy rows of vineyards. Lots of modern pub food here – pork belly bites, pizzas, lamb shank, and platefuls of hearty salads.

Boston Brewing Co.