As the sun begins its slow descent a little earlier each day and the vineyard leaves paint the Yarra Valley wine region in tones of gold, russet, and amber, there’s no better season to indulge in something deliciously slow, warming, and deeply satisfying. At Isabella’s Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Rochford Wines, we invite you to trade brisk winds for the gentle glow of an open fire – and discover the pleasures of our newly launched winter menu.
A Celebration of Comfort, Craft, and Culinary Curiosity
Curated with care by Executive Chef Ramiz Shaikh and his passionate team in the kitchen, our latest seasonal menu is a love letter to local produce, thoughtful technique, and bold, comforting flavours. This is food designed not just to be eaten, but to be experienced – layered, generous, and plated with artistry.
Returning to the fold are beloved dishes that have won hearts through many winters past in our revered Yarra Valley restaurant, such as the 16-hour slow-cooked beef shoulder, impossibly tender and deeply savoury, and the ever-popular sous vide lamb shoulder, a dish that feels like a warm embrace on a frosty afternoon.
Alongside these familiar favourites, we’re delighted to introduce a new cast of culinary characters including a delicately spiced chicken terrine, beautifully balanced and rich in depth. Pickled baby octopus, playfully paired with a spicy corn salsa and a smoky, velvety eggplant romesco sauce – a dish that dances between texture and tang, boldness and elegance.
For a more leisurely experience, opt to share our new Isabella’s Grazing Board for Two – an abundant spread of artisan meats, cheeses, arancini, and a bottle of Estate wine for just $85. It’s the perfect way to unwind on a crisp afternoon.
For those with dietary considerations, you’ll be pleased to discover a generous selection of gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian delights – each crafted with the same attention to detail and depth of flavour as every item on our menu.
Toast to the Season: Firelight and Fine Spirits Await
After a leisurely lunch, take a few steps into our Spirited Bar, housed within the Cellar Door. With a curated selection of local and international labels, it’s the perfect place to linger over a warming dram or a crisp botanical gin, as the light shifts across the vines and the fire crackles nearby. The perfect pairing to follow a meal, or to simply savour the season.Â
As winter settles over the Yarra Valley, there’s no finer way to embrace the season than with a glass of soul-warming mulled wine. Infused with aromatic spices and bright citrus zest, our mulled wine is winter in a glass – crafted gently simmered, and deeply comforting. Enjoy a complimentary tasting at our Cellar Door, or savour by the glass at Isabella’s Restaurant. Available daily throughout winter at Rochford.
Unwind in the Afternoons: A Delicious Offer Awaits
There’s something deliciously rebellious about escaping the weekday grind for an indulgent afternoon in wine country. From 2-5 PM, Monday through Friday, we invite you to enjoy 25% off your bill when dining at Isabella’s Restaurant.
Take a long lunch, sip slowly, and allow time to stretch just a little longer across the afternoon – our way of saying thank you for choosing to dine with us during the most picturesque time of the year in the Yarra Valley Wine Region.
A View Worth Toasting
Perched amidst Rochford’s rolling vineyards and framed by the majestic Great Dividing Range, Isabella’s Restaurant is more than just a place to dine – it’s an experience that captures the essence of the Yarra Valley. Panoramic views, world-class wines, and a menu designed to celebrate the region – it’s a table worth travelling for.
Don’t forget to consult with our friendly sommeliers, who are always delighted to recommend the perfect wine pairing from our award-winning collection to elevate your meal from memorable to magnificent.