A Taste of
Marlborough
History
People who grew up
in Marlborough may
remember the beautiful
old convent building
located at Saint Mary’s
in Blenheim.
Throughout its almost 120 year history the
building has served many purposes, and now
for the first time in years, casual diners are
welcome to experience the historic building
and its beautiful gardens for lunch or dinner. Head chef Sam Webb grew up in
Marlborough and learned to finger paint
in the convent building, before it was
relocated to its current site among the
vineyards 25 years ago.
The Marlborough Lodge is located off
Rapaura Rd. The driveway winds its way
between impeccably kept lawns, gardens
and spring fed streams where free range
chickens, ducks and pukeko graze for food. A few years later, after plying his trade
in kitchens around the world, Sam has
returned to his hometown for what he calls
his “dream job.”
The elegant two story building that was built
in 1901, sits comfortably in its surrounds and
is looking stunning with a fresh coat of paint
thanks to an extensive refurbishment two
years ago.
STORY BY KAT PICKFORD
SUSIE WILLIAMS & SUPPLIED
The restoration work has resulted in
an elegant and relaxed feel, with its
contemporary decor highlighting the original
Victorian architecture.
Harvest Restaurant, which can seat 40
people, feels homely and relaxed and
showcases the gardens wonderfully.
Over the past 12 months, he’s been
focussing on developing the menu and
now he’s looking forward to welcoming
local diners to Harvest Restaurant for lunch
and dinner.
The menu features some of Marlborough’s
best seafood and fresh fruit and vegetables,
and is “fresh and sophisticated and not too
complicated,” Sam says.
“If something is on the plate it’s there for
a reason, it may look simple, but there’s
lots of flavour, and a lot of technique and
work goes into it.”