Taste of the Country

Taste of the Country is a country-style café and retail outlet at the De Iuliis Wines Complex on Broke Road in Pokolbin, next door to Hunter Belle Cheese Room. It serves hearty meals throughout the day, with all-day breakfast alongside lunch, morning tea and afternoon tea options. The kitchen prepares food fresh each day, and the menu includes breakfasts, burgers, main meals, salads, desserts, scones, tea and coffee. The café also has gluten-free and vegan choices, with staff able to discuss dietary requirements and modify meals where possible.

The venue is particularly known for its country-style Ploughman’s platters, including a platter for two and individual picnic versions for concerts or outings. Hunter Belle cheeses feature in several cheese platters, while other named favourites include the big country breakfasts, burgers, roast beef and gravy rolls, and Nana’s scones. Meals and platters can be ordered for takeaway, making the café a practical stop after exploring the surrounding wineries. Frozen meals are also available to take home. As a fully licensed venue, it serves local wines, beers and spirit mixes with meals.

Inside, the café is designed to feel like an old-fashioned country kitchen, with country giftware, locally made produce and other treasures available to browse or buy. Guests can also sit on the alfresco terrace overlooking the lawn and landscaped garden, with the Broken Back Range behind the property. Picnic platters can be enjoyed outdoors on complimentary picnic blankets under the trees, while children are welcome to use the colouring-in activities, kids’ area and lawn space.

The café has operated for 23 years and is also a social enterprise supporting young people facing barriers to employment. That community focus sits behind the relaxed, family-friendly setting and gives the venue a purpose beyond dining. It suits families looking for room for children to play, groups stopping for a substantial meal between cellar-door visits, and solo visitors wanting a casual café break. Walk-ins are accepted, while groups of six or more are encouraged to book ahead.