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EXPERIENCE THIS // Bistro Sociale And Beyond At Berida Hotel

We tried the amazing Prix Fixe menu, a special weekday selection of local and seasonal produce wrapped up in a fantastic two- or three-course set-price menu at Bistro Sociale, the in-house restaurant at Berida Hotel, Bowral.

And not only were we totally blown away by the value and deliciousness, we also found there’s so much more to enjoy here, from cocktails on the terrace to whisky tastings and elegant private dining, and more!
Elegant dining setting with two people cutting steak and roast beef. Main dishes are paired with red wine, greens, fries, and bread, creating a cozy, upscale atmosphere.
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Our Berida Hotel Experience

There’s really just something about the Berida Hotel that gives us all the classic charm feels with a modern twist.

The minute you enter, you can feel the style and warmth, and somehow it still feels like a little mini escape, even if you’re just coming for a yummy lunch in between meetings. 

But it’s not just lunch where Berida Hotel shines, incredible breakfast, fun pre-dinner cocktails and whisky, and gorgeous rooms where you can rest your head for the night… Berida Hotel is just the place for it all. 

Historic brick building with ivy-covered facade, arched windows, and an inviting entrance. Outdoor seating adds elegance under a partly cloudy sky.

The Prix Fixe Menu At Bistro Sociale

Okay so the real reason we stopped in, we love a sneaky weekday lunch [and even non-sneaky ones!], so when we started to hear a bit of a buzz about the Prix Fixe menu put together by Nathan Jackson, Berida Hotel’s Executive Chef, we booked a table at Bistro Sociale – stat!

The Prix Fixe menu is available 7 days a week at Bistro Sociale, the wonderful in-house restaurant at Berida Hotel in Bowral. 

You can book a table anytime between 12 and 2pm – we did it online. Super easy. 

When you get there, you can choose whether you’re going to go with the 2 courses for $48, 3 courses for $63 which both include a glass of house sparkling or wine… amazing.

Or if you love the contemporary European cuisine at Bistro Sociale and you want something from their regular menu, you can do that as well! 

Either way, you can settle in for a long-ish lunch of 3 courses or make it a quick [+ delicious] one with the 2-course selection.

There are 3 choices for entrees and mains and 2 for dessert, with the menu changing regularly depending on what seasonal produce is available and freshest, thanks to local producers and of course, Nathan’s always giving the food that subtle European touch that is Bistro Sociale’s point of difference in the Highlands.

So What Did We have?

Okay, we won’t lie, it was hard to choose. Every dish sounded AMAAAAZING!

In the end, we went for the Heirloom tomato, buffalo mozzarella, basil, and anchovy as our entree. It was light and refreshing, and if you were going to put the Amalfi Coast on a plate, you’d probably pop this on it!

For the main, we couldn’t resist the MB5+ Black Onyx Angus rump, pommes frites with café de Paris butter. The plate was loaded up – the Prix Fixe menu is definitely good value – and we’re thinking about it now, mmmmmm.

And for dessert [obviously, we’re having dessert], the options were divine. Triple cream brie, local honey, macadamia praline, lavosh OR Rosewater pavlova, chantilly, lemon curd, balsamic strawberries…….drooooool! 

We went with the cheese, but gosh, the pavlova was tempting. 

Phew, now we need a drink, lucky we know a spot! 

Beyond The Bistro

That’s the beauty of Berida Hotel, there’s always more to experience.

For a cheeky pre-lunch or post-dinner drink, the bistro’s bar pours out beautifully crafted cocktails and boutique gins. 

Or on a sunny day, the terrace is where to go for basking in that glorious afternoon warmth with a glass in hand.

When the weather is not so nice, the games room is an excellent place to chill, play some pool, cards and relax with a bevvie and some nibbles. 

And if you’re a whisky fan, Aspinalls Lounge & Bar is a highlight. It’s moody, elegant, and with over 250 whiskies from around the world to choose from, it’s ideal for tastings or nightcaps. We headed there after lunch, and let’s just say, it was an excellent life choice.

Berida Hotel is also a fabulous place for events and celebrations. From private dining and Christmas parties to happy hours to board meetings and conferences, the spaces are as versatile as they are gorgeous. 

And with all-day dining available seven days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, you never really need an excuse to visit.

red pool table in room with dark walls and pictures hanging on the wall

Why We Love It

It’s pretty obvious why we’re so in luuuurve. 

Between the incredible food, thoughtful service, and welcoming atmosphere, Berida Hotel has created that “special occasion” feeling, even for your midweek lunch. 

We’ll definitely be back, maybe next time for that pavlova… and another whisky of course! 

There are always so many reasons to visit this pocket of luxury and style in the Highlands… and this is a delicious addition to that ever-growing list.

Experience it for yourself at Berida Hotel.

Book your weekday lunch at Bistro Sociale online here, email bookings@bistrosociale.com.au or give the lovely team a call on 4899 7116 to lock in a lunch over the phone.

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