558 Caraban Road, Caraban
Ph: 0475 905 725
www.mooreriverbrewing.com.au
Brewed by Nature: A Riverside Escape
Tucked away on the banks of the stunning Moore River, the town’s eponymously named brewery sits on an historic 40-acre property that has been in the King family since 1862. Owners Cindy and Neil King, have created a cosy, farm-style venue that is brimming with character. Their family’s connection to the area runs deep; Neil’s great-great-grandfather Daniel King, built and ran the Old Junction Hotel on Gingin Brook Road, Neergabby; a notable establishment that was once a go-to rest stop for travellers in need of food, drinks and a bit of respite along the old stock route. Today, the King’s continue that legacy blending history, exceptional food and a welcoming vibe in an idyllic riverside setting.
Cindy and Neil have worked tirelessly to create a space that reflects their family’s passion for hospitality and their love for the laid-back country lifestyle. Their motto, ‘Brewed by Nature’ captures the essence of Moore River Brewing; a perfect blend of rustic charm with modern touches. It is the kind of place that locals and visitors from nearby towns have been craving for years.
I had the pleasure of accompanying the magazine’s publisher and editor Scott, to sample their culinary wares and was delighted to be welcomed by a warm and inviting interior. The space was a charming blend of timber accents, recycled bricks, sleek black wrought iron and quirky rusted relics, that added a nostalgic touch. The design perfectly balanced rustic cosiness with an industrial edge, creating an atmosphere ideal for a relaxed afternoon of great food and beer. Through the large windows, we could see families arriving by dinghies, children feeding horses in the neighbouring paddock and a group of teenagers trying their luck at fishing on the riverbank.
We kicked off our dining experience with their Beer Battered Fish and Chips, served alongside a vibrant garden salad. While this dish may sound simple, it was anything but ordinary. The fish was perfectly cooked – juicy and flaky on the inside, with a golden, crispy batter made using their signature ‘Local’ branded beer. We had a chance to chat with Chef Amanda Mills, who shared her secret behind the batter’s standout flavour. (Fun fact: she is currently experimenting with beer-battered fried chicken, which sounds like a must-try in the future).
The garden salad was a colourful and refreshing accompaniment. It featured a zesty Green Goddess Dressing that brought a light, tangy flavour to the mix of cucumber, mesclun leaves, onion and tomato. Unexpected additions like blueberries and red cabbage elevated the dish, adding a creative and delicious twist. It was a perfect side that complemented the fish beautifully.
Next up, we tried the beer tasting paddle, which showcased four of the brewery’s standout creations: Summer Ale, Local Lager, Pale Ale and Spiced Ginger Beer. Each brew brought something unique to the table. The Summer Ale was crisp and refreshing, while the Local Lager had an easy-drinking quality that paired well with the dishes; the Pale Ale offered a bold, hoppy profile and the Spiced Ginger Beer delivered a zingy, slightly sweet twist. Although the brewery’s beers are currently crafted off-site, there is an exciting buzz about their upcoming in-house brewing operations, slated to launch in 2025.
The Burnt End Beef sliders were next on our list and they did not disappoint. These tasty little bites featured smoky, tender beef coated in a tangy Texan BBQ sauce. Served on soft brioche buns and paired with a side of crisp slaw, they offered a perfect balance of flavours and textures. This dish is a must-try starter or perfect for sharing.
The Steak Sandwich followed and it truly lived up to its reputation. A perfectly chargrilled sirloin fillet took centre stage, complemented by crispy bacon, melted cheese, caramelised onions, fresh greens and a tangy tomato relish. All of this was tucked between slices of rustic sourdough bread. Paired with a side of golden, crispy chips, this dish hit all the right notes – comforting, indulgent and satisfying. Chef Amanda Mills’ dedication to sourcing quality ingredients shone through, with most of the venue’s meat coming from the renowned Borrello Meats.
Another beautiful dish was the Garlic Prawn Pizza. Topped with fresh, peppery rocket, the pizza dough was perfectly crisp on the outside while remaining light and fluffy inside. The plump, juicy prawns were complemented by a creamy garlic sauce that added just the right amount of richness without overwhelming the flavours. The rocket brought a refreshing touch, creating a delightful balance in every bite.
Our final dish was the Farmland Grazing Platter, a feast for both the eyes and the palate. This beautifully presented platter featured sharp cheddar, creamy brie and tangy blue cheese, alongside sweet and spicy chilli jam, juicy blueberries, marinated olives, sun-dried tomatoes and chewy dried apricots. A generous serving of crisp crackers tied everything together, offering a variety of textures and flavours. We paired the platter with a glass of 2019 Bella Ridge Estate’s Tempranillo Grenache. The wine’s smooth, fruity notes complemented the cheeses and chilli jam perfectly, rounding off the meal on a high note.
The Moore River Brewery Co. is more than just a place to eat and drink; it’s a little slice of heaven that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The relaxed vibe, stunning river views and fantastic food and drinks make it a destination worth visiting. And the best part? It is just under an hour and a half from Perth city, making it the perfect spot for a day trip or weekend getaway.
By Cam Allen
