The Bickley Valley area of the Perth Hills is fast becoming a must go weekend destination. There’s wineries, cafes, mini golf and the popular Core Cider House. To me, the spot nestled just behind Kalamunda is a far prettier drive than the Swan Valley, with its native bushland, winding roads and green rolling hills covered in vineyards and orchards, giving it a real country feel.
The Packing Shed opened up earlier this year. Found at one of Bickley Valley’s vineyards, Lawnbrook Estate, the rustic eatery is a peaceful spot for brunch or lunch all year round.
We’ve previously been there on a sunny day and sat on the patio with a glass of wine.
Little Chef loved to run around on the expansive lawns.
This time we visited for brunch, we spent a winter’s morning sitting inside, by the roaring log fire.
The staff are always welcoming and friendly. The coffee is very good too.
The Packing Shed – Food
The brunch cut off is 11.30am, but there are a few breakfast dishes that make it onto the lunch menu for late-risers. My top brekkie pick has to be the shakshouka. It’s one of my all-time favourite brunch dishes and the Packing Shed version of eggs baked in a spicy Moroccan tomato sauce is very tasty and the fresh bread is perfect for dunking! 
I also enjoyed the corn fritters with Sriracha mayo ($12). These were crisp and bursting with Indian flavours, they reminded me of onion bahajis. The creamy mayo added a little spice, but it wasn’t overpowering. It’s light, good for if you’re not feeling like something massive to eat. I picked this dish from the gluten free options and added a poached egg too.
The beef brisket sliders ($18) with pickles, Swiss cheese and wilted rocket is from their lunch menu and were enjoyed by my Dad.
Both times I’ve visited, my Mum chose the quiche and salad ($14.50). She always raves about it. The side salad is really tasty and well made, certainly no afterthought and the quiche type changes often. Mum also devoured the pumpkin quiche.
Kids are well catered for, with a corner with some books, colouring in and a few games. There’s high chairs for little ones too. On the kids menu you’ll find a few tasty options and Little Chef chose the platter. A brilliant idea, as children love to graze, but something I haven’t often seen on menus. This platter included a home made sausage roll, cheese and crackers, apple, grapes and a chocolate chip cookie. It is quite the feast! 
The Packing Shed is well worth a visit. It’s a great spot to start off an afternoon of vineyard hopping in the Bickley Valley with a full tummy!
And be sure to check out the Lawnbrook Estate wines when you’re there too. The Packing Shed is perfect for spending a couple of hours on a lazy weekend. Whether you’re an early riser or prefer a glass of vino and a platter. 
The Packing Shed is open Friday to Sunday.
