Innovative Dining Ensconced in the Vines
Hunters Quarter owner and chef Brian Duncan knows his way around a kitchen – and so he should. He has worked in some of the best.
Describing his style as 'Modern European', Brian brings a wealth of well-travelled experience to the Hunter's dining scene, having worked at the Dorchester Hotel (three Michelin stars) and Claridge's Hotel (one Michelin Star) in Mayfair in London. Brian was also the executive chef at Level 41 and The Establishment - two of Sydney's most iconic dining venues.
Attracted by the region's lifestyle, wine, and food, Brian, his wife Jen, and their two children decided on a "tree change" to the Hunter Valley in January 2016, where they opened Hunters Quarter at Cockfighters Ghost vineyard in Pokolbin. And they haven't looked back.
The restaurant itself is elegant and stylishly furnished with floor to ceiling windows providing loads of natural light and a wonderful view of the dam and vineyards located just a few metres away. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, and the dining space has an almost rustic look to it, with a polished cement floor, timber tables, high ceilings and large drop pendant lighting.
For Brian, it's all about the food and the experience, and he tends to shun the limelight, preferring instead to let his food do the talking – letting it define who he is.
Inspired by his international culinary experiences, chef Brian Duncan's menu combines first-class ingredients, bright, balanced flavours and expert technique. HQ's innovative menu is created with the area's local and seasonal produce, and its dishes deliver balanced, innovative originals with texture in the most extraordinary country setting.
"Hunters Quarter isn't about fine dining. We feel that the Hunter Valley has sufficient fine dining options. Instead, we are about smart-casual food. We want people to come here to catch up for a glass of wine and choose from the bar menu or sit down for a meal," says Brian.
"We are proud that the Australian Good Food Guide has commended Hunters Quarter with a Chef's Hat over the last two years and included us in the Sydney Morning Herald with Australia's best. This year, Hunters Quarter has been voted Contemporary Restaurant of the Year by the Australian Prestige Awards, which is really exciting."
Hunters Quarter is up there with the best in contemporary regional dining. Here you will find something for everyone - whatever the occasion. Best of all, it's all bundled up in a relaxed, elegant dining experience with welcoming service in a beautiful and unique vineyard setting.
Hunter's Quarter
