Paul Jiear eats out in Orange with his family regularly, but when the head chef at Zona Kitchen Bar Events has a night off to spend alone with his wife Monique they take a trip out of town.

The seven Jiears – Paul, Monique and their five children – often choose between Sweet Sour Salt, Mr Sushi King and Mr Lim Korean and Chinese Diner, while the preferred option on date night is Sister’s Rock Restaurant at Borrodell Vineyard.

Mr Jiear said he admires what chef Richard Learmonth has been able to achieve in the short time since he’s taken over at the Lake Canobolas Road restaurant.

“He’s got a very sound technique. What he puts on the plate doesn’t appear overly complicated but I can see what’s gone into the cooking,” he said.

Mr Jiear said the food at Borrodell is what keeps him returning and the fact it comes with “as good of a view as you can get anywhere in Orange” is a bonus.

“Sitting out on the verandah you just have to look out and you can see what Orange has to offer,” he said.

While dining among the grapes, Mr Jiear said his wife is partial to the winery’s sauvignon blanc while he’s “more of a pinot man”.

The standout dishes during their last long lunch at Sister’s Rock were the marinated mixed olives, the freshly baked sourdough, and the fillet of murray cod.

Mr Jier said in the 12 years since he moved to Orange from the Adelaide Hills the city’s food scene has evolved enough to leave him in want of nothing. 

Having earned his stripes in Sydney, the Hunter Valley and Port Stephens prior to transforming the Central Caleula Motor Lodge function centre into a bustling Summer Street establishment, Mr Jier said he developed a love for Pho which – now that he can get it in Orange – has meant all of his culinary cravings are catered.

“For a town of our size we are definitely punching above our weight,” he said.