Those of you who perhaps haven’t been reading about my life for the entire past three years will probably not realise I haven’t been a city dweller for all of my years. I have in fact only resided in the inner city suburbs for a little over three years and before that I was nearly an hour away, in the outer eastern suburbs of Melbourne (often referred to by friends and collegues as New Zealand, given it’s distance and my daily commute).

Zonzo Restaurant at Train Trak Winery

One of the benefits of living that far out (okay, maybe the only benefit?) is that its fabulously close to the Yarra Valley and all the delights of the wineries and restaurants and weekender type activities of the hills. 

And while it might take me a little longer to get out there these days, it’s still well worth the drive to visit the kind of places where you one day dream of attending a wedding, to sip wine that has been grown and created (is that what you call wine making?) on the premises and to indulge in far too much amazing food.

Train Trak vines (with a little help from Instagram)

My most recent visit was to Zonzo, a winery and restaurant in Yarra Glen. Nestled among the vines of Train Trak winery, Zonzo offers an Italian experience in the Yarra Valley, serving food on shared tables and enhancing the dining experience with spectacular views of the vines and lawns.

I popped in on a Sunday afternoon and while the temperature outside was particularly chilly, Zonzo had a welcoming feel with open fire and fogged up windows that made it feel homely. We drank Pinot Noir and feasted on gluten free pizza (one of the best bases I’ve been able to try!) and shared salads.  

Train Trak Pinot Noir and Gluten Free Pizza

You can visit Zonzo at 957 Healesville – Yarra Glen Road Yarra Glen 3775, or visit their website http://www.zonzo.com.au to check out what else they do (like weddings, functions, corporate stuff, dinner with the family etc etc). They are open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch, and Friday to Sunday for dinner.

I’m looking forward to heading back in the warmer months to toast with a Sav Blanc and dine outside!

And just to finish – I am totally in love with this picture from their website!! Too cute.