The McLaren Vale Hotel is buzzing with excitement as renowned chef Paul Wilson begins his autumn residency at this historic pub in the heart of the wine region.
With resident head chef Glenn Worrall taking a well-deserved break after a busy summer, Wilson is ready to introduce a new autumn menu that reimagines classic pub fare.
“As a regular presenter at Tasting Australia, I’ve been visiting Adelaide and its stunning surrounds for years since moving from the UK to Australia about 25 years ago,” said Paul Wilson. “Being British I grew up in pubs and I know how important ‘the local’ is to the community it serves, near and far. I couldn’t be more stoked to have been handed the reins at one of the most loved and awarded* regional pubs in the state.
Known for his fine dining experience at places like Icebergs in Bondi Beach and the Botanical Hotel in South Yarra, Wilson earned the nickname ‘Pub Whisperer’ for his ability to elevate traditional pub menus. At The Vale, he’s working with Glenn Worrall’s team to create dishes that honor the pub’s rich history while showcasing fresh, local produce.
“Forget fashion-food,” said Paul Wilson. “I’m all about fresh takes on tried and true classics; delicious retro country cooking where the quality of the produce speaks for itself and keeps punters coming back for more.”
Wilson’s new autumn menu features updated versions of favorites like Schnitzel and Parmigiana, handmade pies, and rockstar burgers. The menu also includes dry-aged, grass-fed SA Black Angus steaks and sustainable seafood like Coorong mullet. Fans of British cuisine will appreciate modern twists on classics such as spiced Scotch eggs and cheesy Welsh rarebit.
Paul’s arrival follows extensive renovations at The Vale by the Palmer Hospitality Group, which restored historic features like original fireplaces and ironstone walls while expanding the alfresco deck area overlooking Tintara Winery’s garden.
Palmer Hospitality Managing Director, Martin Palmer said: “With the refurbishments behind us, summer was massive for The Vale with Glenn Worrall setting a cracking pace for our amazing kitchen crew and positioning us for a bumper year in 2024. We’ve long admired Paul Wilson’s work with other iconic Australian pubs, where he’s shone new light on classics-based menus – retaining the popular pub feed-feel but elevating the dining experience. ”
“So, while Glenn puts his feet up for a while, we’re delighted to have Paul at the helm and we encourage locals and visitors to savour his creativity with a quick pub meal in the Vale Bar, a long alfresco lunch under the largest Morten Bay Fig tree in Australasia, or at dinner in our Bellevue Restaurant.”
The McLaren Vale Hotel has been recognized with several awards, including Best Overall Hotel – Country and Best Redeveloped Hotel – Country at the 2023 AHA/SA Industry Awards for Excellence. With Paul Wilson’s new menu, The Vale is set for a delicious autumn season.
The McLaren Vale Hotel
208 Main Road, McLaren Vale
Open daily: 9am till late
Lunch from 12pm
Dinner from 5:30pm
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