For 14 years Grant and Rachel Farrant have been building up the award-winning Restaurant Como – the restaurant in a carpark – at Blaxland.
But with three kids under nine, the time has come to take a break and dedicate more time to family.
“When they are tiny they can adapt, but they are just starting to notice what they are missing out on,” Mrs Farrant said.
On February 24 they will hand over the keys to new owners Jody Noppert and Adam Shaw, who also own Pins on Lurline in Katoomba.
What’s in store for the couple is unclear, but they are considering a move to Burrill Lake near Ulladulla on the South Coast.
Another restaurant down the track, perhaps?
“We just need a break from this. But we do love food and wine,” Mr Farrant said.
“The kids want us to open a dance studio.”
It’s with mixed emotions they farewell the restaurant which has won a single hat in the Good Food Guide for 10 of the 14 years, and a silver service award in 2010.
In 2016, the guide described Restaurant Como, as “a diamond in the rough”.
It continued: “Here’s the thing: it’s in a carpark. Really. But here’s the other thing: it doesn’t matter. Put it aside and focus on the food because it’s some of the best you’ll eat in the Mountains.
“The food is considered, truly seasonal and most importantly, delicious. Kobe beef cheek that’s been slow-cooked over 48 hours. One of the better leaf salads you’re likely to taste.”
The couple have always prided themselves on their service and consistency.
With Mrs Farrant front of house and Mr Farrant as head chef – “we work really well together” – they’ve shifted from an a la carte menu to eight-course degustation. Diners wouldn’t know what to expect on their plate, but would trust in Mr Farrant’s creativity.
“To have people put their experience in our hands, over the last two years, they wouldn’t have done that 12 years ago,” Mrs Farrant said.
“Everyone loves being surprised, with seasonal produce and the best I can get,” said Mr Farrant.
They said they have appreciated the support of locals over the years and their dedicated staff, many of whom will stay on with the new owners.
It wasn’t unusual for locals to drop in produce from the garden such as finger limes, or Jerusalem artichokes grown in Warrimoo which Mr Farrant would turn into a delicious soup in winter.
Restaurant Como is booked out until February 24, but people are welcome to pop in for a coffee or a wine. The couple will be around for a further two weeks to help with the handover. The new owners plan to keep the same menu, style and customer service.
