Like the love-child of a Hamptons beach house and a Cotswolds garden manor, Bells at Killcare offers the kind of setting that demands long lunches and languorous dining experiences. A sprawling veranda and an interior of cream and blue with lots of timber frame expansive views across Bells’ manicured lawns and gardens. In true Italian style, the menu celebrates vegetables (many from the garden) as well as seafood, but isn’t above the occasional modern flourish. A crudo of New Zealand salmon is a fine entrée, the luxe texture of the fish contrasted with the pop of Avruga and crunch of puffed rice, while a whole snapper comes with sauce-sopping pearls of fregola and a feast of lightly charred garden vegetables. The sour-sweet refreshment of expertly churned lemon gelati closes proceedings in style. Service runs the gamut from affable to polished, while the handling of wine, much of it Italian, is notable in its professionalism.
This review was made independently for the Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide. The guide’s reviewers visit unannounced and pay their way.
Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide
Wine: ★ ★ ★
Gourmet Traveller’s star-ratings, which range from zero to three stars, reflect reviewers’ first-hand experiences. The best-rated restaurants form our national Top 100. Our wine ratings, from zero to three stars, are made by wine editor Max Allen on the strength of the quality of the restaurant’s wine list. View our rating key here.
