Como House and The Stables

The first time I tried to get into the trendy new cafe The Stables at the elegant National Trust Como Historic House and Gardens in Toorak (just across the river from Richmond) was on a Sunday. It was packed to the rafters with eaters and those waiting to eat. 'Bookings' were being taken by Prue and Trude look-a-likes (as seen in Kath & Kim). We fled the scene! Well I have now been back mid-week and although popular certainly not overflowing as it had been that weekend (and not a Prue and Trude in sight - well except for some of the clientelle look-a-likes!). And I discovered that they take bookings - 9827 6886. (I'm not sure if they do at the weekend - but I'm sure Prue and Trude will put your name on the list and you can wander the divine gardens and admire the house until your table is ready)

Prue and Trude - awaiting your visit to The Stables (twitter)

The Stables of Como is open for breakfast, br/lunch and afternoon tea daily. They will also organise a picnic basket for you to enjoy in the gorgeous gardens (of course you can take your own!). With or without Prue and Trude it is well work a visit.

Entrance to The Stables (Prue and Trude were absent)

Inside - light, friendly and tasty!

Sitting next to us was Andrew Prior - now unless you follow Masterchef you may not know who I mean. He was in the show this year but due to stress fractures in the feet (not from the cooking!!) he could not continue. He is now doing some terrific Food Tours of Melbourne (and France!) and was having a reconnoitre at The Stables of Como.  Hop onto his website to join one of his tours (www.queeniesfoodtours.com) they are fun, informative and most importantly yummy!

Andrew from Queenies Food Tours (recognise him from Masterchef?)

Spend some time wandering through the gardens and admiring the elegant Como Historic House and Gardens which was build in 1847. It was established by Edward Eyre Williams (not a relation unfortunately! - but his name remains as the House is on the corner of Williams Road and Lechlade Avenue). It is thought that Edward proposed to his wife at Lake Como in Italy (lucky her!). 

The elegant Como House - I love the all-white look

It was sold to Frederick Dalgety in 1852 (founder of the Dalgety Pastoral Company) and finally came into the hands of the Armytage family (10 children!) in 1864 for the princely sum of £14,000. The family remained at Como for 95 years until they handed it over to the National Trust in 1954. Unfortunately the house is only open to group tours at this time. 

Through to the herb garden

Stroll in the gardens or take a picnic

Bowen Cottage client comment:  To say that this cottage is a 'home away from home' is an understatement. We are regular visitors to Bowen Cottage and enjoy spending time there, as do our little dogs. It is perfectly located for people who love AFL, shopping, walking, eating out, and keeping fit at either the local pool nearby or the many yoga classes in Bridge Road. We look forward to getting back there again. (normally I don't include such a long comment but how could I resist this one. A big thankyou to Lisa, Will and a woof woof to Betty Jo and Este Belle)