Lilydale’s Locavore Studio Offers a Deliciously Local Affair

When I first heard the term "locavore," I assumed it was a fancy Italian or French word, pronouncing it "Loca-vore-aye" in the same way we pronounce Target as "Tar-jay" or Carnegie as "Carny-jay" when we're feeling a bit pretentious. As it turns out, a locavore is someone who eats locally produced food—think carnivore or herbivore. Locavore Studio in Lilydale epitomises this unpretentious concept. Their focus on celebrating the best of the Yarra Valley is reflected in their restaurant, providore, and roastery.

Locavore Studio, nestled in Lilydale, the gateway to the Yarra Valley, is a treasure trove of regional delights. Established in 2017 by Yarra Valley local Jessie Rae Crossley, this day-to-night venue offers a restaurant, a providore, and an on-site coffee roastery. It's a spot where community and provenance converge, creating an inviting space for locals and visitors alike.

Walking into Locavore Studio from Lilydale’s Main Street, you’re greeted with the kind of welcome that feels like a warm hug. The dining room, awash with natural light and earthy hues, is the perfect setting for any meal. The menu, crafted by Head Chefs Kyle Noll and Ryan Lynch, focuses on sustainability. Every dish showcases locally sourced ingredients, whether farmed, foraged, or caught at sea.

Locavore Nights: A Feast for the Senses

Locavore Studio truly comes alive during Locavore Nights, a dinner service running from Thursday to Sunday. The evening kicks off with delightful starters like Coffin Bay oyster with tamarillo, finger lime, and guajillo, or the irresistible honey and spelt cob loaf with smoked butter.

For snacks, the crispy, textural XO wagyu tartare tartlet topped with fried school prawns is a must-try, while the fried chicken wing with ranch and Oscitra caviar offers a decadent twist on a classic. These dishes pair perfectly with an Ugly Vodka Strawberry Gum Caprioska, setting the tone for a memorable night.

When it comes to small plates, the Rocky Point cobia with kohlrabi, dashi, native lime, and horseradish is a standout, as is the Jerusalem artichoke anolini with hazelnut and pine mushrooms. The master stock quail with currant, vanilla, celeriac, and quince rounds out the selection, all complemented by a glass of Mac Forbes Strathbogie Riesling.

For a more substantial fare, the Corner Inlet rock flathead with Yarra Valley caviar and saffron & bergamot buerre blanc is an elegant choice, best enjoyed with Rare Hare LL Vineyard Chardonnay. The smoked Margra lamb rump with burnt carrot and black garlic, paired with Payten & Jones VV Sangiovese, is a hearty option that promises to satisfy.

Sides include dressed Ramarro Farm leaves and royal blue potatoes with chicken sauce, adding the perfect touch to your meal. And for those with a sweet tooth, desserts like dark chocolate with stout, miso, and peanut, paired with Pablo Escubac, or the feijoa with pine, oat, apple, and cultured coconut, served with a Lemon Tart Flip, provide a delightful end to the evening.

Proximal Coffee Roastery

For coffee enthusiasts, Proximal is a must-visit. Owner and roaster Evan Thompson's 'Best Friends' blend, using seasonal beans from sustainable farms in Colombia and Burundi, is a crowd favourite. Thompson’s commitment to innovation and education is evident through bespoke tastings, inviting the community to connect over a shared love of coffee.

The Providore

Adjacent to the dining room, the Providore offers a farm-style shopping experience with local produce, deli meats, cheeses, and homemade meals. Fresh pastries and breads baked daily, along with artisanal homewares and ceramics from local artists, make it a perfect stop for a weekly shop or a thoughtful gift.

Locavore Studio is a celebration of the Yarra Valley’s bounty and a testament to sustainable, ethical eating. Whether you’re stocking up on local produce, enjoying a coffee, or dining in, Locavore Studio promises a genuine, heartfelt experience.