This was the first time I went there, and having been to various Indian restaurants already, I had a fair idea of what I should be expecting.
So we sat down and ordered Lassi. This did not disappoint an in fact was probably the best lassi I've had!
On to the meal. Pre entree came the traditional papadums. This was complemented by some dip/sauce! A detail that other almost all other restaurants don't bother with. But then came the entree, chicken kebabs. Very nice I must say.
The mains were of a decent size too and tasty! Compliments to the chef.
The only thing that let me down was the naan. Decent, but I've had better.
At the end of the meal, I did have a quick chat to the owner/manager who was very friendly and happy to hear that the meals were great. I didn't tell him about the naan though. Maybe I should have.

Approximate cost: $mod

I quite like their breads that you get as entree. Though why they're an entree I'll never know. Big and more than enough for 1 meal.
But somehow finding the room to fit in mains, we ploughed on found that their mains were exciting and delicious.
Good to say the least

Approximate cost: $mod

It's not as classy as The Red Ochre upstairs, but then it's not as expensive. Still, this place oozes class and provides where it needs!
It's 'classified' as a cafe, but it's more of a full on restaurant. I guess this is the case because they have the 'official' fine dining restaurant upstairs.

Approximate cost: $mod

I like this guy.
When you come in, he greets you by first name like you're a friend. Not hard to do, since you have to book and he knows well in advance what your name is.
But I guess if you go there regularly enough, you'll build a nice rapport with him and he'll definitely recognise you.
Otherwise, he's good at what he does and very happy to do it too!

Approximate cost: $mod-exp

Knowing that it's a botanic garden, this is going to sound cliche, but I did like the freshness of it all. I had a salad and it was quite invigorating and a delight to consume.
While eating, you're constantly surrounded by nature, so your dining is complemented with a visual experience. So if you have salad and look at green stuff, then it's a double bonus for your body!

Approximate cost: $mod

Went once, a few years ago (now 2009) and was not impressed by... anything! Food wasn't cooked right, service was lacking, but the views were ok. It looks out over the lake. Can't say that's a bad thing.
I guess I have a lot to compare this place to, so that's why I critique it so bad. Apologies if you have any differing opinions.
Just my experience there wasn't one of the better ones

Approximate cost: $mod-exp

I do like this place both as a function centre and as a place to eat. It's also a great place to catch up with mates.
Didn't actually get a chance to sample their chargrill though. Might have to go back there soon. But everything else about this place oozes potential!
One of those, "I'll make it one day" types. But once you do, you'll want to return... sometime.

Approximate cost: $inex-mod

The setting was nice and quaint. We were the first ones there that night, so we got to see it as the night progressed. Was still good when it was a little busier!
Anyway, ordered some oysters for entree and you have to order the oyster in cranberry juice if they still have it! It's like a booger in a test tube! An autopsy!!! Haha. Sounds revolting, but you shot it down and it tastes rather good! Well done I say :0p
Otherwise, the other food was above average.

Approximate cost: $mod

I went here with a friend a while back. The place wasn't busy, we weren't dressed badly, there was nothing wrong with our mannerism, but the service was lousy! I'm not going to say it's as bad as some, but it certainly wasn't good.
For the price we were paying, we at least expected decent service standards... and even the food was quite plain. I think we both had some kinds of pasta.
Anyway, disappointed

Approximate cost: $mod-exp

Rockford's Alicante Bouchet is by far one of the better ros(ay)e's that I've ever tasted! If you have no idea about wine, then don't start with this one. It's like starting with the best and most expensive and working backwards. You just won't appreciate the cheaper wines.
Other than this rose, there are plenty of other excellent wines on offer. Their Basket Press Shiraz is apparently really good. I haven't tried to to date because every time I go there it's sold out! Although I did pick up a nice bottle of black shiraz which is a sparkling red which I am yet to uncork. Soon I hope!

Approximate cost: $It's a winery! What main course?