Red Shack Cafe — Restaurant in Penola

Chef has a wonderful background. No wonder he is also sought after to cater for events and weddings.

From SE Voice 2022, "He started his career training in London before working with the prestigious French Roux Brothers and embarking on a stint in the royal kitchens of Buckingham Palace and Balmoral Castle in the 1990s. .....

Mr Perry’s desire to travel led him to Australia for 12 months before returning to London where he spent two years working for Great British Bake-Off judge Prue Leith at her Michelin starred restaurant. Mr Perry was part of the team that earnt the Michelin star, stating it was one of the most incredible nights and biggest highlights of his entire life......"

I ( the Reviewer) moved to Penola in December 2024 and was delighted to find such a cafe with an ever changing menu for lunch as well as for cakes and desserts. Great coffee too! It is very obvious that the chef (Ian) brings his formidable background to...

Called in for a very early breakfast on 11 June, and had the cafe to ourselves. The food was very substantial, and beautifully cooked. We were fortunate to be the only ones present as it gave us an opportunity to speak with the owner/chef (Ian Perry) and talk about his past, particularly as a chef to the royal family at Balmoral and Buckingham Palace including the Queen of E's breakfast habits, the Duke of E's obsession with family BBQs, and other bits of royal trivia. Call in if you're ever in Penola: it's worth the chat, and good...

The cafe (and compliments to the chef) is a treasure for anyone who loves and understands what great food is all about. Ordering soup is very uncommon for me, even considering to order soup is uncommon… until I found myself at The Red Shack. The cream of mushroom soup with garlic and tarragon served with a rye crouton and raclette. Enough said; but I will add, outstanding. Also, the Reuben, one of the best in Australia. The coffee is also worth mentioning… you know, just go there and enjoy it...