By Kendrea Rhodes
The former Top End Takeaway in Lobethal now has a new look, feel and purpose. To the average person it may seem like any other “take away cafe”, but there is a subtle and very important distinction: the new owners, Marissa and John Greiner, are experienced chefs – high quality food is their life.
The modern décor, with deep red and earthy colours, alongside the new stainless steel kitchen, expresses their stylish approach. The menu balances conventional with contemporary. Traditional Italian pizzas include Puttanesca, Quattro Formaggi and Proscuitto e Funghi. Or for something more modern, you might like the Vegetarian, Spicy Mexican, Meat-lovers or BBQ Chicken pizza – using only organic chicken. All meals are made from scratch by Marissa and John on the premises; pizza bases, curries, burgers, sandwiches, cakes and all day breakfasts. Fresh batter is made daily for the fish and chips, along with mayonnaise and tartare sauce. John even uses his own brew in the beer batter for that authentic taste.
Marissa and John are both Adelaide TAFE hospitality graduates and completed their apprenticeships at the former Adelaide Hyatt Hotel. They’ve also worked at the prestigious Hayman Island Resort in the Whitsunday’s, The Hotel Palazzo Versace on the Gold Coast and The Dorchester Hotel in London where they cooked for royalty, politicians and celebrities alike.
The Greiners were also schooled by first-class Indian chefs in England, where Indian cuisine is now mainstream. This is reflected in their menu with a popular selection of curries; butter chicken, lamb vindaloo, lamb korma, Thai green curry, prawn laksa and vegetarian lentil curry. They use local produce wherever they can such as Tweedvale Milk, Lobethal’s Noske Meats, Rosie’s eggs, Bridge Poultry (organic chicken) and Ricca Coffee.
Considering these credentials and experience, settling for a shop front in Lobethal now seems somewhat unlikely. However, the sound reasoning behind the move for the couple was to be home in South Australia and live the country life. They couldn’t think of any place better to settle than close to their family, in the beautiful Adelaide Hills. So, now they’re locals, building their own home in Charleston on three “country” acres.
Greiner’s Kitchen is situated right next door to Tacki, which provides the perfect girls outing with a spot of shopping, then lunch, coffee and cake afterwards. And as a “special occasions” venue – it’s a winner. With a garden out back, coupled with the Greiner’s experienced catering skills, you can’t go wrong.
So if it’s fresh, quality food you are looking for, Greiner’s Kitchen is the new place to be. With convenient opening hours until 8pm, Tuesday to Sunday, it fits into almost everyone’s way of life – especially if you’re a bit over being your own “Masterchef”. Treat the family and go out for dinner; or pick up a pizza; or fresh fish and chips; or a fully catered birthday party. Phone Marissa and John for bookings or takeaway orders, on 8389 6588.
