Images: Jason Porter
This new family-run Aldinga cellar door and restaurant is already stealing our hearts, and it has only just opened, with estate-poured wines, craft spirits, tequila, good food and a warm hacienda-style atmosphere.
Chelsea Lunn, Nikki Lunn and Megan Crouch are behind Yonder, Aldinga’s newest venue and distillery, bringing the Fleurieu a fresh Mexican-inspired way of dining.
“It’s an exciting time here; Mum and Dad are working away in the garden and the three of us are attending to all the final details,” Chelsea said.
“The little things that make all the difference.
“As sisters we’ve been working together for 11 years and Yonder has been a blessing.”
“When we decided to take this on we knew it would be a big undertaking,” Chelsea said.
“We decided to dedicate ourselves fully and make this the best venture we’ve turned our hands to yet.
“We think guests will enjoy our share style plates, extensive drinks list and attentive service combined with an eclectic mix of live musicians and a big party atmosphere,” Chelsea said.
The menu leans into Mexican-inspired dining, with shared plates, snacks like chips and salsa and the kind of relaxed setup where you do not need to overthink what comes next.
“Our food is simple but surprising, it has no specific cuisine but is inspired by big flavours from places like South America and South East Asia,” Chelsea said.
The venue itself is a bit transportive, because once you step inside, the Fleurieu Peninsula suddenly feels a world away.
The space feels like a sun-drenched Mexican ranch house reimagined, with corrugated iron ceilings, whitewashed walls, woven stools and timber tables scattered throughout the room.
A cosy nook features cowhide rugs, colourful pillows and shaded seating, presenting itself as the perfect spot to sit, chat and only worry about what the next cocktail may be.
It has plenty of character, and the three sisters have brought the hacienda-style cellar door theme to life with warmth, texture and a real sense of personality.
That same family-led feel carries through to the way Yonder is run, with each sister bringing something different to the venue.
“Megs heads up a menu to roll with the seasons, Chels is on the drinks and cocktails and Niks is on customer service – she will make sure everyone feels well and truly spoiled,” the team shared.
The Fleurieu Peninsula might not be the first place you think to go for a Mexican-style retreat and restaurant, but Yonder is exactly the kind of place that makes the trip feel worth it.
Yonder
When: Friday 3pm to late, Saturday 12pm to late, Sunday 12pm to 8pm
Where: 11 Stonehouse Ln, Aldinga SA 5173
For more info, click here.
