It’s a quiet Sunday night in Dunsborough. The school holiday crowds have begun their journey north to resume the daily hum-drum routine, but we have another day in paradise and we’re looking for a bite to eat.
Being a Sunday and the end of the school holidays, it’s fair to say that we’re not spoilt for choice.
Luckily we have been tipped off about a trendy new eatery in town, and we have secured a booking.
The Wayfinder Cellar Door and Restaurant in the heart of Dunsborough has only been open since March 21 but it already has a reputation for excellent food and service.
Wayfinder is nestled neatly amongst the cafes and boutiques along Naturaliste Terrace and on this Sunday evening it is easy to spot because it is the only one open.
People are quaffing wine at the alfresco tables and warm inviting light spills out from the trendy-looking restaurant when we arrive.
A beautiful bespoke Victorian ash bar and shelves stocked with Wayfinder and affiliate wines dominate the narrow space, which was designed by Kerry Hill Architects. Victorian ash tables and chairs, polished aggregate concrete flooring and interesting art curated by The Artling in the UK create a sophisticated and welcoming atmosphere.
The menu is as interesting and refined as the restaurant interior. It is divided into four categories: Snacks, Shares, Substantial and Something to Finish. It is the work of Colombian-born chef Felipe Montiel, who has taken inspiration from his home country, Argentina where he lived and studied for 10 years, Saudi Arabia and Australia.
After some deliberation (and consultation with our very knowledgeable and attentive waitress Issy), my wife and I settle on four Shares. And before long, we are tucking into an eclectic but delicious combo: spiced potatoes with pickled onion and chipotle mayo, duck tostada, grilled mushrooms with macadamia puree and gremolata, and Albany sardines with garlic cream, confit lemon on sourdough toast — all of which is accompanied by a glass of 2023 Wayfinder Sauvignon Blanc.
After the excellent meal I corner Feipe to find out what attracted him to Western Australia.
His answer is a little unexpected but perhaps not that surprising given his occupation.
Felipe tells me he came to Australia after working in Saudi Arabia and spent six months working in Melbourne before being tempted to WA after hearing about the quality and variety of the fresh produce we have. “For me this is like paradise. I just love it here,” he says.
Felipe says he is really focused on using local resources and he enjoys the close contact he has with the suppliers, whom he says are always happy to chat and happy to work with him.
“We are really close, I can go to a farm and see the animals or the vegetables, which is really good for me.”
We thank him for a memorable dining experience and make our way back to our accommodation for one more night in paradise before returning to the hum-drum.
If you are in Dunsborough on a Sunday night, or any night apart from Tuesday or Wednesday for that matter, I can highly recommend a visit to Wayfinder.
You’ll find it at 239 Naturaliste Terrace.
As the name suggests you can also pop in for a Wayfinder, Swell Season and Small Wonder wine tasting session and perhaps grab a bottle or two to take home.
You can find out more at wayfinderdunsborough.com.au.
