Margaret River has a new main street premium dining destination: de’sendent

As the south west region’s continued dominance as West Aussies’ preferred holiday destination continues to grow, so does its dining offerings.

And this week the town welcomed a new edition to its bustling main street, de’sendent, a new chapter for owners and co-Directors Ann Spencer and Executive Chef Evan Hayter.

Previously at Arimia Estate, the duo describe their latest venture as a “supercharged version” of that winery/restaurant’s offerings set within a 35-seat space at the top of the Margs’ main street.

“Margaret River’s got exceptional winery restaurants; we wanted to add an elevated option to the main street that complements the existing dining offerings in the heart of town,” says Hayter, pictured above.

“We’re in good company, with some great restaurants – my food is very different to theirs, so I won’t be stepping on anyone’s toes.”

Open Wednesday-Saturday from 5.30pm til late, de’sendent will offer an à la carte menu featuring elegant snacks and small and large plates, including dishes like charcoal grilled abalone, Augusta snow crab salad with toasted brioche and caviar, and a rotating choice cut of full-blooded, local grass-fed Wagyu beef.

Restaurant Manager Kaelan Outram has put together a carefully considered wine list with offerings from around the globe and of course, in their own background, along with a few sneaky sakés on account of Hayter’s love of Japan.

“The wine list is designed to encourage diners to step out of their comfort zone and try some interesting varietals and styles they might not be acquainted with, but will complement the food beautifully,” says Outram.

“But for people looking for something more familiar, there’ll still be a few ‘cosy corners’ on the list.”

The venue has been transformed from a rug shop into the sophisticated space diners will find now by local designer Kerry Brooks, and features an open kitchen designed to connect with diners, alongside signature copper pendant light fitting stylishly suspended over a granite benchtop, elegant custom-made chairs from Italy and Australian-made dark bronze tapware from Astra Walker.

“The chefs will be serving the food; guests will get to interact with them throughout evening,” says Spencer.

“We want diners to be part of the journey – to understand the story behind each dish and the ingredients Evan’s used to create it.”

de’sendent is located at 3/152 Bussell Highway, Margaret River, and is open Wednesday-Saturday from 5.30pm-late, head to their website for more info.

Image Credit: Supplied