Relish at The Links

One of the Illawarra's best kept secrets, Relish at The Links is tucked inside the clubhouse of a championship sized golf course just off the Shellharbour Road, Dunmore.

It's a great place for lunch, not just because of the view which is spectacular, but because the food is so good and the service excellent. Prices for meals range from about $12 to $30 and because you are inside a club, the atmosphere is as relaxed as can be. There's also a full bar and you don't need to be a member to use it.

Mid-week is probably the best time to enjoy this little gem at its most relaxed. The produce is fresh and the chef certainly knows his way around a kitchen. Menus change frequently and the waiting staff are always ready with the latest special. They'll also take good care of you, nothing seems to be too much trouble.

Beer comes at club prices and wine starts at around $5 for a large glass. Watch the golf while you eat or play a round yourself - there are buggies available and there are also temporary membership specials for those staying in the area for a while.

Top dishes include chilli prawns, Queensland barramundi in a beer batter and melt in the mouth rib-eye. First timers should really try the 'taster' platter; a sort of meze that introduces you to a number of signature dishes.

So far I've never had to book, although it's probably advisable at weekends, but even if you have to wait a while for a table you will be pushed to find a better place to do it than on the balcony overlooking the links.

The view from the restaurant balcony in winter