We returned to Adelaide by way of Gorge Road, which follows Cudlee Creek through a winding valley, the valley turning into a rocky canyon for part of the way. We were glad for the shoulder harnesses as Sarah negotiated the tight turns of Gorge Road. The Adelaide Hills are gorgeous; filled with orchards, vineyards and picturesque views from ridge roads and valleys. Brick or stucco ranch-style homes dot the country mountain roads, with metal or tile low-sloped roofs and lots of windows.
Brian and Sarah treated us to dinner at the Red Ochre Restaurant in North Adelaide, built on the bank of the River Torrens with a beautiful view of the CBD across the water. Seated at a semi-circular table facing the view, we watched crew teams rowing on the river as dusk settled over the city. For appetizers (the menu called them entrees) we had crocodile cakes and goat cheese ravioli with wild lime sauce; all very delicious (the crocodile was a little chewy). For the main course, Sarah had duck, Rhonda the beef filet mignon, and Brian and Dan the mixed grill – a tremendous sampling of Australian meats: wallaby skewers, kangaroo steaks, emu sausage, lamb cutlets, and quail breasts with mashed potatoes and gravy, served at the table on a grill with live coals to keep it all hot. The food presentation was a beautiful thing.
Several of the restaurant staff waited on us throughout the evening; Brian and Sarah said that all Australians receive a “living wage,” and tips are not expected. Whenever we thanked them, the wait staff would reply, “No worries.” The service was excellent, though we had to ask for the check. Australians take their time when eating out. After the meal, we headed home to bed, our eyelids still getting very heavy after 9 PM.
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