Orchard Café (The), Aldinga: Lisa enjoys the menu in the Fleurieu Peninsula region of South Australia

The remains of the Port Willunga Jetty is a favourite landmark on this popular stretch of coast, 40 minutes or so south of Adelaide. There was a time when the original jetty saw a procession of wheat bags from the surrounding farms and slate from the nearby Willunga quarries. At its peak, Port Willunga was one of the busiest ports in the colony. That meant the nearby Aldinga branch of the Bank of Adelaide was one of the busiest too. It was pivotal to business in these parts until the railway killed the port in 1915.

But now, the old bank has been reborn as The Ochard Café bar and pizzeria. It's the work of Kerry Flanagan who has a reputation for taking socalled 'renovators delights' and converting them into interesting eateries. The Orchard is his latest triumph and features his trademark use of recycled materials.

Kerry Flanagan, The Orchard Café: "A high percent (of the renovation) is recycled. These old timbers were old posts I found in a paddock down at Yankalilla just sitting idle and I grabbed them, restored them then found a use for them."

They certainly give a solid feel to the new deck area, which is a popular spot all year round. Kerry confesses he didn't have a master plan for the restoration project - instead the décor just evolved. He certainly has a knack of successfully marrying the old with the new creating a fun holiday vibe, which extends to the menu. On a hot summer's day the shade of the giant native fig is the perfect place for a lazy afternoon snack on the Orchard Picker's platter. A selection of local cheese and dried fruit, meats including Willunga cheriso sausage and local lamb kibbie baked in the oven, the platter reflects some of the fresh local produce of the region.

The latest addition to The Orchard is the pizzeria built around the old bank stable where he's built a wood pizza oven.

Kerry Flanagan, The Orchard Café: "What is it about sitting around sharing a pizza? I think it's about the community coming together, friends and acquaintances, The pizza's an excuse to sit down and share a conversation, a bit of food, a glass of wine. It's just a fun thing to do."

And with is own label of Wirilda Creek from McLaren vale, Kerry's got that covered too. The Orchard Café is at 22 Old Coach Road at Aldinga. It's open daily and it's advisable to book. If you have any further questions please email info@postcards-sa.com.au

The Orchard Café
22 Old Coach road
Aldinga Bookings: 8557 6997

Published 13th September 2009