The Innocent Bystander Cellar Door is remarkably different from what one might typically associate with a winery. Located in the Yarra Valley wine region, what makes it unique is fact that it is not set amongst lush greenery or vineyards but rather, on the main road of a town centre. Despite this, what it offers stays true to its gastronomical philosophy – by being a destination for great food.
The expansive space that houses the Cellar Door actually comprises of a restaurant, bakery, cheese room and wine tasting for both Innocent Bystander and Giant Steps wines. Most of the baked goods are on a self-serve basis and includes the likes of artisanal bread and a range of pastries and tarts. I’d suggest picking a few up before you head out – highly recommend the Tarte Tartin and Fig & Honey tart!
A sharing style menu is offered at the restaurant with a fantastic selection of cured meats, smaller and large plates and pizzas. The BBQ lamb ribs and Pork Belly are both equally fantastic and as for the pizzas, everyone in our party of 6 loved the Buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomato, basil and olive oil for its simple, and cleaner flavours. In terms of the wines, unless you have tried it previously, I don’t think you can visit Innocent Bystander without taking a sip of their Pink Moscato! It’s the perfect embodiment of fun and frivolity – bubbly and sweet with a lovely honey aftertaste.
Food at the Restaurant
Innocent Bystander 2014 Pink Moscato
Jamon Serrano (Spanish white pig cured ham)
BBQ lamb ribs w. ouzo, honey, thyme and brown butter couscous
Roast Kurobuta pork belly with pomegranate and cost lettuce, radish and mint salad
Pizzas – Spicy pork sausage, buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomato and chilli (top) and Buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomato, basil and olive oil (bottom)
Innocent Bystander Winery
336 Maroondah Highway
Healesville, VIC 3777
Wine tasting
Innocent Bystander: Free of charge
Giant Steps: $10
http://www.innocentbystander.com.au/blog/restaurant-wine-bar
