The Eli Bistro, located at the Elimatta Motor Inn in Devonport, Australia, is a traditional Australian bistro that serves a range of bistro-style food and more upscale restaurant-style dishes. During a recent visit with family, the restaurant was not particularly busy, and ordering was done at the counter. While there was a bit of a wait for the food to arrive, once it did, it was hot and well-received by everyone at the table.
I opted for the chicken schnitzel with chips and salad, which was cooked to perfection and had a satisfying crunch. While the salad was a bit lacking in dressing, the pepper gravy that accompanied the meal was the highlight for me. The gravy had just the right amount of kick, with whole peppercorns and bits of chili giving it a delightful texture and taste. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the best gravies I’ve ever tasted in Devonport.
Aside from the food, the views from The Eli are quite spectacular, with a great view of the river and the ability to watch the ships come and go in the evening. The pricing at the restaurant is reasonable, with my meal coming in at $27.99. However, it’s worth noting that some of the other dishes can reach over $40. If you plan to visit The Eli on a public holiday, be prepared for a 15% surcharge.
Overall, I would highly recommend The Eli Bistro for anyone looking for traditional Australian bistro fare with an exceptional view of the river. The pepper gravy is a standout feature, and while there may be a bit of a wait for the food, it’s worth it once it arrives.