Friends took us to Coney Wines in Martinborough to do lunch at the Trio Cafe. I must admit, I had never come across Coney wines before but since noticed a selection of it New World this week! I enjoyed the wines, although felt that they were pleasant but nothing to get too excited about – I didn’t buy any to take home.
Courtyard
A serviceable cafe looks across a lovely courtyard area with views across the vineyard and rolling countryside. Grey skies and a cool breeze made al fresco dining an endurance sport, but with no tables available inside we decided to tough it out and huddle under the outdoor heaters then as the cafe cleared we finally secured a table inside, allowing us to thaw out.
The majority of our boisterous group ordered “Tastes”, with one ordering a taste as a starter then followed by a main dish. Taste dishes are around the $10 mark and there is a nice variety of dishes to select from. I chose two Tastes, one of pinwheels and the other of baked brie with raisins and bread.
Tastes
After ordering we were being entertained and given tastings of the Coney Wines selection, so it took a while for our group of six to realise that we were waiting a considerable time for our food. Two taste plates were brought, …but then we had an hour wait for the rest of the dishes and ended up eating well after 3pm, we had arrived late but still! Service was friendly, attentive, apart from the long wait for the food, and coped well with our chatty and opinionated group! The food was pleasant, beautifully presented and enjoyed after enduring the cold and wait, but nothing to wax lyrical about. I felt that my brie dish had been warmed but was cool by the time I got to enjoy it but the raisins and sauce with it was a welcome change to the usual brie accompaniments.
The walnut and honey cake was a tad dry and not what I anticipated although I did note that there were lots of walnuts used to bring out a strong flavour. The cheese plate is a must for cheese fans, a generous plate of cheese was served along with some almonds, which was a nice addition.
Walnut and honey cake
Cheese plate
We had a lovely time and pleasant food so I can see that most would be happy to dine here, but I will be happy to explore other lunch venues next time I am in Martinborough.
