Rvr and I see each other pretty much never, but it makes it that much more special when we do. After covering many areas in Sydney, we (aka I) decided that we should do a day trip out to a cutesy country town. I thought of Berry in an instance simply because... donuts/doughnuts(!!!). Yes, the famous Berry Doughnut Van - it just had to be done. Of course, Rvr had no idea what it was (such unawareness, it hurts) but he's slowly learning... 

Never have I ever driven anywhere remotely past Campbeltown and I was surprised to be met with lush green meadows and cows grazing on grass; not at all like the tumbleweed deserts I'd imagine. Plus, the drive was quite fun on the freeway as it meant that I got to go super fast and pretend I was a race car driver. After two hours or so, a string of songs on repeat (we couldn't put on any Taytay *sad*), and accidentally packing SPARKLING water instead of still (yes, I had a cry about this), we finally arrived at Berry. 

After thorough research on where to have brunch in Berry, we/I decided on South on Albany for its simple and fresh menu. Most, if not all, the ingredients are sourced locally and are organic etc. The restaurant was just off Queen Street on the corner of Albany (ha!). 

For fear of looking like a tourist (being Asian really doesn't help my stereotype), I didn't get as many photos as I liked now that I look back on it. The staff were so kind and friendly though and made us feel very welcomed. A beautiful sunny winter (yes, this was some time ago) day meant outdoor seating with the added bonus of throw overs and outdoor heaters. The menu worked with entrees on the left, salads and shares in the middle, and mains on the right. We had a full day of eating ahead of us so I had to be sure not to over order like usual. The menu is ever changing as they use seasonal ingredients, so it's always something fresh and exciting.

Rhubarb, mint and ginger cordial $4

Wtf, this drink was only $4?! When's the last time anyone got a drink for $4 in Sydney cafes? The rhubarb had a sweet subtle flavour and there was a zing of ginger aftertaste. Didn't realise it would be sparkling but that suited flavours of this drink. It was refreshing after a long drive and could see it being popular for the warmer summer days.

Chicken Liver Pate and Pear Chutney on Grilled Sourdough $9

Depending on your attitudes towards liver, the sound of pate can either delight you or disgust you. But I wouldn't order it if I hated it ^_^. The presentation looked a bit off-putting with the squiggles and it lacked that heavy liver taste that I love. The sourdough also took more effort than necessary to bite and the watercress(?) did not add to anything. Not to say it wasn't a tasty dish, the addition of the sweet pear chutney worked well with the pate, but the dish is not something I'd order again.

Soy and Mirin Infused Ocean Trout, Avocado, Picked Daikon, Radish, Eik Leaf, Fennel Dressing and Dashi $16

The presentation of this dish is so beautiful; the bright orange trout, hint of red radish, different shades of green and tinge of purple dancing on the plate. The Japanese-inspired flavours were surprising but def the good kind. The dressing was light and citrus-y and worked wonderfully with all the different textures. 

Fish of the day: Blue Eye Fillet with Sauteed Savoy Cabbage, Potato, Peas & Green Beans and Jerusalem Artichoke Sauce $35 (MP)

Embarrass to admit it was my first time trying Blue Eye - it's not a very common fish to eat, well at least a common one I would eat. Wonderfully well-season and crispy skin with soft white flesh peeling off. The highlight was that sauce though; sort of sweet and broth-like, pairing wonderfully with the fish that was a bit boring at times. 

After a wonderful meal and start to our day of food adventures, the lovely waitress who served us recommended a couple of places to try for our day out and, of course, Milkwood Bakery was one of them. I'm sure everyone who has been past Berry has gotten a treat from this place, famous for its freshly baked goodies. 

Along with a selection of tantalising tarts and cakes, they also sell organic coffee, fresh juices, sandwiches, bread, and a shelf full jams and preserves made locally. 

Lamb and pine nuts sausage roll $4 

Chocolate croissant $4(?)

I've never been much of a croissant fan, but I can't front that there is something magical about the flaky buttery layers that are soft and pillowy on the inside, but golden with a light crisp on the outside. Especially when they're freshly baked :O Only comment on this is the large chocolate chunk in the centre, where we thought it would be spread out through the layers. Was awkward to eat as it was literally just a ball of chocolate pushed through the middle of the pastry when baked... Hmm.... 

Apple Tart $4(?)

Seriously though, this short crust pastry is my life. MY LIFE. Buttery, crumbly, delicious goodness GET ALL UP IN ME. Slivered almonds and slices of apple in all its tart-y goodness. Perhaps one of the most wonderful and memorable pastries I've had. I will be back for you, my love. 

To think, this is only half of what we ate so far... 

Stay tuned for Part 2.