A country restaurant A Bulletin Advertising Feature

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 10, Issue 477, 16 March 1993, Page 11

A country restaurant A Bulletin Advertising Feature

Something good is happening out at the Ruapehu Homestead - a cosy and intimate dining experience at Windows Restaurant, with its unique location at the Ruapehu Homestead, beautiful panoramic views of the mountain and surrounding Homestead gardens and an affordable selection of meals. 'Windows' has only been operating as a cafe and restaurant from mid-winter of last year even though they have been serving meals for house guests since 1985. "Back then we were very limited with cooking and kitchen space and even though this was adequate for accommodating our hungry house guests", said Sue Allomes, "it wasn't until we

extended the dining area and replaced our timbered walls with floor-to-ceiling windows and developed the kitchen to a more workable size in July 1991 could we consider opening up to the public." 'This is why we decided to call the restaurant 'Windows'," said Sue. 'Windows' was granted a restaurant licence in July 1992 and established a wine list with the help of Waimarino Wines to complement most budgets and tastes. An invitation to bring-your-own is also extended. The menu is designed to appeal to most tastes and even the most hungry of diners will feel satisfied after two or three courses. "One of the most popular items on our menu is our freshly made Homestead loaves," said Sue. "These taste great just

on their own, with soup or practically anything and are different to the traditional garlic bread that a lot of restaurants might serve. Everybody seems to enjoy them and come back asking for more!" Another feature of Windows is their speciality selections at certain times of the year. For instance this month Windows is featuring a special selection of desserts which they have named 'Dessert by Candlelight'. Along with the main menu and dessert selection, casual diners are welcome to come out if they just fancy going somewhere for a dessert. "In cities this is very popular and of course a lot of cafes are open just for the night life. However, there seems to be just as many people looking for an excuse to do something with their evenings around here as well." With an emphasis on an enjoyable evening Windows has a cosy

and intimate atmosphere. "We have had a few group bookings for birthdays or a special

social occasion which have been most successful. If there is such an occasion then we are always approachable and can offer assistance if they wish for a special menu." "With our superb loca-

tion here, quiet rural atmosphere and privacy we often opcn-up the windows and cater for people who like to

enjoy their meal in the evening while the sun is still warm." Being situated just four minutes from Ohakune

and ten minutes from Waiouru makes 'Windows' a pleasing alternative for a night out.