Driving to Gembrook, you might expect home-spun country dining options until – like a mirage – The Independent appears. Suddenly, inspired Argentine food is a possibility. Hell, there’s even a small vegan menu. Housed in a refurbished garage with a kitchen garden, The Independent throws down share plates perfect for both a convivial family get-together (facilitated by coloured pencils and a cubby house) or an intimate date. The wine list sticks closely to Victorian and Argentine labels, providing interesting matches for entrées like a spice-punched chorizo, sweetened with prune purée, or empanadas with a lychee chilli jam. Heartier dishes include Flintstones-eque beef ribs with potatoes, fried chicken and even a suckling pig for those who plan ahead. Garden sides are no afterthoughts: think spiced, sticky carrots with peanuts. Sign off with an exuberant dessert, perhaps the chocolate marquise, piled with almond cake and dulce de leche.
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.
