Farmers Arms Hotel

1 East St, Daylesford

Summary:

A short history lesson to commence. The Farmers Arms, (TFA) Daylesford, set out on its own gastronomic journey around 25-30 years ago when country pubs were (generally) relying on the deep
fryer and good luck to bang out something to elevate their food beyond its limited ambitions.

The term “gastro -pub” (still the worst portmanteau ever concocted) was relatively new to Australians; its origins very British. But this glorious, weather beaten old brick boozer, replete with all manner of greenery/creepers covering the exterior, went on a fantastic and different route and elevated its offer way beyond what you could expect.

Its path was set and after such a long absence, am genuinely pleased to report that this pub ticks over so well. The facade would grace any Country Life/Gourmet Traveller magazine so wonderfully inviting it is on the edge of equally beautiful Daylesford.

Four areas to choose and dine (the beer garden was open to those preparing for a trip to the Antarctic; no takers) and while the dining room is an option, the bustle of the bar appealed.

Polished timber/floorboards, strategically placed heaters, leadlight windows all add to an expectant good time. And the pub delivers.

TFA sources as much local as it can, and is happy to recite on the menus who/what/where is providing. Prices are higher than your standard but the effort going in, the amount of staff gracing the floor, and the calibre of cooking, justifies this.

Pokies: No
TAB: No

Here’s a sample from the Entrees. Beef Tartare, Greenhills Natural Grass-fed Eye Fillet, potato crisps, fresh herbs, cured yolk is $23; Mushroom pate, port jelly, radishes, toasts $21.
To the mains. Coq au Vin, braised chicken maryland, wine, mushrooms, bacon, celeriac puree, fresh herbs ($39.5) or Roast Pork Belly, apple/cranberry relish, broccolini, creamy mash, red wine jus ($41).

Highlights: First time ever was the Foccacia. Two generous slices, arrived hot and had an almost sweet, cakey texture that begged to be both eaten immediately and left to mop up the juices.
The Venison Pot Pie is a generous offer (although not a fully encased one), lardons and juniper berries add to the flavors. $33.5 is fair shopping. Seafood Spaghetti (38.5) again is plentifully plated, with a dab hand ensuring the garlic butter supports but not overpowers the dish.

Very Good eating.

TFA supports local grape growers from smaller vineyards. Musk Lane Pinot Noir (15pg), is sourced from Faraday, Rongo Riesling from the Strathbogies. (14pg). Carlton Draught, Valhalla Pale, Harcourt Cider proudly shine out in a very small, semi circular bar, that was a hive of activity. And that’s the reason people go to the Farmers Arms in Daylesford. Every seat/table was taken, but
even arriving without a booking, the pub went out of its way to get us in and comfortably so.

Hospitality lives on. (the beer garden was offered but rejected!!!)

Many more pubs have copied this type of offer over the last 3 decades, and the Farmers is one of many now. But the elements that made this pub stand out then, still run through its DNA today.
The Farmers Arms Daylesford is a bankable, higher level country pub in Victoria.

SCORE: 15