Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club chefs puts Blacktown on the map

A golf club is not often associated with fine dining.

But Stonecutters Ridge Golf Course chefs Luke Facchetti and Stephen Geering may have the recipe to put western Sydney on the culinary map as ClubsNSW Chef's Table finalists.

Open to all registered clubs, hundreds of three-course menus valued at $22 per head based on the key ingredient rosemary were submitted.

Of the 16 finalists selected from as far as Dubbo, Moama and Ballina, Stonecutters Ridge was the only western Sydney venue.

Open for less than three years, the club stood out against more established venues with its Anzac-themed menu of Fray Bentos (entree), game for a battle (main) and flowers on the battlefield (dessert).

It was the first stop for Chef's Table judges Julio Azzarello, executive chef Adam Moore from Seven Hills company Cerebos and 2010 Masterchef contestant Courtney Roulston last week.

"I've been here since 3pm, where Luke and Stephen have been smashing it out in the kitchen," Mr Azzarello told guests.

"Judging by the aromas coming out of there we're in for a great treat."

Executive chef Fernando Rodriguez said: "It's good to be part of such a prestigious event. The guys have worked very hard and are keen to get the meals out here."

Mr Rodriguez was proud of his chefs who started at 11am to prepare for that night's dinner, especially Mr Geering, of Doonside, who finished his apprenticeship.

"We tried to push ourselves to do things we'd not normally do and get outside our comfort zone," he said.

"Yesterday was Mother's Day so to back up today was huge."

Club chief executive Craig Scott hoped the club's first finals appearance won't be the last. "Registered clubs like ours are no longer just about buffets and steaks," he said.

"The competition also provides our chefs with the opportunity to challenge themselves and to develop their skills and knowledge and I'm sure people eating at our club will see the benefits."

The winners will be announced at Revesby Workers Club on Monday, July 20.

"It will be very difficult to win it for this first time," Mr Rodriguez admitted.

"My hope is that we can put on a really good showing and then build on the business around this."

Source : The Star   Kylie Stevens   May 21st 2015