Explore the exquisite menu at Citizen Kanebridge Lodge Berrima. Indulge in slow-cooked lamb shoulder, savory gnocchi, decadent desserts, and family-friendly options, all while relishing the charm of this historic venue in the heart of Berrima.
Citizen Kanebridge Lodge Berrima is not just a restaurant; it is a portal to history wrapped in exceptional culinary craft. Situated on 11 Old Hume Hwy in Berrima, NSW, this establishment seamlessly blends rich heritage with a menu that celebrates the fresh, local bounty of the Southern Highlands. The legacy of Taylor’s Crown Inn lives on here, lending a unique character that enhances every dining experience.
The menu at Citizen Kanebridge Lodge is a thoughtful curation of dishes that respect tradition while embracing innovative flavors. Breakfast offerings stand out, especially the Shakshuka—baked eggs with chorizo in a spiced capsicum and tomato sauce served with crusty sourdough. This dish strikes a perfect balance between robust spice and comforting warmth, ideal for starting the day. Equally impressive is the Wattleseed French Toast, accompanied by Davidson plum compote and macadamia crumb, delivering a sweet, nutty finish that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
Not to be overlooked, the lighter options such as the Garden Fresh Salad and Crispy Potato with Saltbush Smoked Butter highlight the kitchen’s dedication to native Australian ingredients, showcasing earthy, smoky, and fresh notes that elevate these dishes from mere sides to memorable accompaniments.
For starters, the Beef Tartare with native peppers and straw potato provides a vibrant, textural contrast that is both modern and grounded in local produce. The Chilli Salt Calamari married with Davidson plum and ginger dressing is a standout for its harmony of heat and sweet citrus tang, a combination that awakens and cleanses the palate. The Warm Burrata with confit tomato and macadamia nut basil oil is a sublime balance of creamy and sharp, showcasing the kitchen’s flair for marrying local nuts with Italian cheese traditions.
Main courses like the Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder offer rich, tender meat paired deftly with sweet potato fondant and charred hibiscus cabbage, delivering depth and subtle acidity. The Roast Duck Breast with grilled plum and hibiscus jus marries protein with floral and fruity elements, creating a sophisticated plate that honors the regional agriculture. The use of native flavors continues with the Kangaroo Fillet, served with pepperberry jus, beetroot, and smoked eggplant purée—earthy, gamey, and complex, a true reflection of Australian terroir.
The service mirrors the quality of the menu. Customers frequently praise the attentiveness and warmth of the staff, ensuring that each visit is as comfortable as it is memorable. Dishes arrive promptly and beautifully presented, which enhances the overall sensory experience. The restaurant’s aesthetic steeps guests in history, from the original convict-built walls to the crackling fires that warm the dining rooms, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and steeped in storytelling.
Personally, the melding of traditional rustic fare with contemporary, locally sourced ingredients left a strong impression. The menu’s respect for native Australian produce, such as Davidson plum, wattleseed, and pepperberry, caught my attention and showcased an authentic connection to place. It is a menu that both educates and satisfies, inviting diners to taste the story of Berrima and the Southern Highlands in every bite.
Overall, Citizen Kanebridge Lodge Berrima offers a remarkable dining journey. It excels at combining history, local ingredients, and culinary skill into a unified dining experience, recommended for history buffs, food lovers, and travelers seeking authenticity in their meals. Whether breakfast or dinner, this lodge promises a convergence of taste, tradition, and warmth that lingers long after the meal ends.
