Valentine heaven at Pen-y-bryn

A wonderfully romantic dinner and two night package for two at Oamaru’s most romantic lodge is on offer, not just for Valentine’s Day but for the entire month of February.

As part of the package, renowned ‘foodies’ James Glucksman and James Boussy of the historic Pen-y-bryn Lodge have designed a melt-in-the-mouth meal inspired by the modern “sous-vide” cuisine techniques of ‘the world’s best chef’ Heston Blumenthal.

The Jameses’, as the Pen-y-bryn hosts are locally known, decided Valentine’s Day would be the perfect opportunity for people to enjoy a particularly special meal. But since the day for celebrating love falls on a Tuesday, they felt an offer available for the entire month was in order.

“We want to encourage people to come and enjoy this beautiful part of the world for at least a couple of days as they celebrate their relationship,” said James Glucksman. “Sharing a romantic and memorable meal together is a big part of this, so we have created a fabulous menu that you just couldn’t cook at home.

“We are great fans of Heston Blumenthal and of the sous-vide technique, which is about cooking food in a sealed pouch in a low-temperature water bath for a very long period of time. The results are amazing and we are very excited to offer this style of cooking for our guests to experience.”

Pen-y-bryn is building a reputation as a foodie haven. USA-born lodge owners James Glucksman and James Boussy are passionate ‘foodies’ who open the doors of their award-winning lodge to chefs from around the country and around the world. Most recently, the kitchen has hosted Jo Seager as she offered tips from her latest book and Masterchef celebrity Jax Hamilton, who oversaw a highly entertaining interactive cooking demonstration.

The Valentine’s package includes accommodation at Pen-y-bryn Lodge for two people for two nights, a romantic dinner for two, either in the main dining room or a private room, and breakfast both mornings. The package is priced at $1250 per couple which represents a saving of $250 over the regular price.

Mr Glucksman said that a two-night stay gives guests the opportunity to experience some of the wonderful things their region has to offer, including the Oamaru Farmers Market held on Sunday mornings, nature and wildlife experiences such as the penguin colonies and Moeraki Boulders and superb sporting opportunities.

“Too often our guests’ one regret is not having allowed enough time to explore Oamaru and the surrounding area. We suggest people treat themselves and their partner to a wonderful short break, dinner with us one night and dinner at another of this area’s special places for the second night.”

People living close are welcome to book for Valentine’s Day dinner only at $225 for two on Tuesday February 14.

Reservations for the dinner and accommodation bookings are essential by calling Pen-y-bryn Lodge or going online at www.penybryn.co.nz