RIDDOCH Street was abuzz last week with two of its eateries winning big at the 2019 South Australian Restaurant and Catering Awards for Excellence.
Proving its worth after more than 13 years in business, Pipers of Penola won its eighth award at the event, named the state’s best regional contemporary restaurant.
The newly reimagined Royal Oak Hotel was named South Australia’s best regional pub.
In their first year of business together, publican John Rymill and chef Kirby Shearing have made a name for themselves and brought new life into the 160-year-old establishment.
Two other Limestone Coast businesses cemented their place in the industry with Presto Eatery named best breakfast restaurant and top cafe dining experience in regional South Australia, while Mayura Station was crowned the state’s best tourism restaurant.
Pipers of Penola owner Erika Bowen said the four Limestone Coast winners showed the depth of hospitality available in the region.
“We have had great support from the community which has been so helpful over the years,” she said.
“That support has helped not only us but a lot of businesses get off the ground which is proven when we have four amazing award winners.
“We have won a few times now but it is never something you expect or anything and it is always an amazing thing to be recognised at things like this.
“We are just so happy to share in it with not only Mayura and Presto but the Royal Oak which is just down the road from us and we have such a great relationship with them.
“They are more crystals in the crown or feathers in the cap for the Limestone Coast and we are really proud to be part of that.”
Mr Shearing echoed Ms Bowen’s sentiments, likening the Limestone Coast to a “sleeping giant”.
“It is so fortunate that us four were recognised but there is just such an amazing talent pool here,” he said.
“The other day we mentioned it was like a compliment – we all complement each other and there is a variety here, especially in Penola.
“I think good food and good tourism has always been here on the Limestone Coast, we have just had to make it known which I believe winning awards like this does.”
