Thursday 15 October 2015

'Steam and Cuisine' Luncheon aboard Puffing Billy

Gastrology recently had the opportunity to "train” our taste buds at one of Victoria’s top tourism attractions.
Puffing Billy has recently launched their latest ‘Steam and Cuisine’ luncheon menu, delivering a new taste of an old favourite.
Guests aboard the Puffing Billy can enjoy a three-course meal or natter platter in the first-class dining carriage while Puffing Billy gently winds through the picturesque Dandenong Ranges. 

The three-hour journey was a memorable dining experience with a difference—perfect for a romantic day out or get-together with friends.
The new three-course menu is completely gluten free and includes two entree, four main and two dessert options. The natter platter provides an array of delectable savoury items and fresh fruit, with a Devonshire tea for dessert.
Entrees: Homemade tomato arancini balls and served with seeded mustard aioli; Vegetable soup served with crusty bread

We opted for the three course menu.
Succulent pan seared Tasmanian Salmon 

The pan roasted Tasmanian salmon fillet was served with fluffy steamed rice and a salad. We loved how the salmon was cooked simply, allowing the natural subtle sweetness of the salmon to be enjoyed. The wild rocket salad was fresh and brought together harmoniously by the superb ginger soy dressing.
Baked Chicken with Pesto sauce 

Breast fillet of chicken was filled with brie cheese and semi dried tomato and then oven roasted.  We enjoyed the buttery scalloped potatoes and broccolini which were topped with creamy pesto sauce.
An hour later, just after we had finished our mains, we arrived at Lakeside Station located in Emerald Lake Park.

Emerald Lake Park's attractions include leisurely walking trails, picturesque Emerald Lake, paddle boats and abundant bird life. We stepped off the train whilst it sits at the station to have a look around.
After the approximately 45 minute break, the 'Steam & Cuisine Luncheon Train' starts its return journey to Belgrave Station, arriving at 3.30pm.
Key Lime Pie - House made tangy lime pie served with double thick cream

The return trip to Belgrave was announced with the arrival of our desserts which we enjoyed over bottomless coffee and tea (all included as part of the luncheon).
Sticky Date Pudding

The sticky date pudding was wonderfully light and fluffy. It was an exemplary execution of the classic dessert. Decadently coated in copious amounts of rich butterscotch sauce, it was an absolute treat.
The three-hour Steam and Cuisine Luncheon experience is the perfect way to share the grandeur and charm Puffing Billy, providing ample time to enjoy the charming dining carriage, take in the beautiful scenery and explore Emerald Lake Park during the 45 minute break in the return trip.



What: The Steam and Cuisine Luncheon on Puffing Billy

When: Train departs Belgrave at 12.30 pm daily (except Christmas Day) and arrives at Emerald Lake Park one hour later. The train stops for 45 minutes before departing for Belgrave station, to return at 3.30 pm.

Price: 3 course lunch 95.00 pp (adult) & $85 pp (Concession / Child); Nattar Platter $72 pp (adult) & $65 pp (Concession / Child) 



Gastrology bloggers attended 'Steam and Cuisine' courtesy of Puffing Billy.

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