A Bistro for All Seasons

Seasons Bistro Bar & Deli is among a growing cohort of establishments in the Macedon Ranges catering to the higher end of the culinary market. Located just off the main street of picturesque Riddells Creek the venue opened just a few years ago after a series of unsuccessful businesses had occupied the premises.

Big windows, exposed rafters and skylights give the place a bright, open feel without leaving you feeling exposed. Dark wooden tables and leather upholstered chairs give the place a classy feel while exposed brickwork makes it feel rustic. In one corner is an open fire, around which club chairs and tables with newspapers are arranged, which would make a a great place for a cozy morning coffee.

Seasons caters to a pretty upper middle class sort of a crowd, mostly young professionals with children. They work in the city but enjoy a rural lifestyle. Accordingly the prices are higher than the pub down the road, and the proprietor has fiercely resisted the inclusion of a Parma and Chips on the menu. While you'd probably describe it as serving 'modern Australian cuisine' in reality that means everything from bacon and eggs to tapas to Greek lamb and Indonesian vegetable fritters.

Every Thursday the place does a 3 course set menu for $40 (with a glass of house wine), while on a typical night a main from the à la carte menu will set you back between $25-35. They also serve breakfast and lunch, as well as coffee, cakes and gelato all day. Recently they've also installed a pizza oven and serve pizza they describe as 'made the Italian way'.

For reasons of economy I decided to breakfast at my chosen venue. We sat at a table for two against the back wall. Partly because it was the coolest spot (the airconditioning leaves something to be desired) and partly because it allows you to observe all the goings on.

I ordered the House made Buttermilk Pancakes Mixed Maple Berry Compote with Vanilla Ice Cream for $15.50 along with a $3.90 cappuccino. The pancakes were exquisite. A soft light texture, not overly floury though. I found the sweetness of the berry compote and the ice cream a bit overwhelming. I think I might have preferred the savory option.

It was intriguing to watch the staff interact with regular customers. Trying to make them feel individually valued, laughing when they didn't have the time to think up a reply, striking that balance between efficiency and service. Unpicking the subtle hierarchies which governed that 3 staff members and the owner's interactions. Guessing at the social status of the customers as they came through.

All in all a very pleasant experience. It's like about 4 shops from Fitzroy combined into one and made a bit more rustic. The only place really worth dining in town,