The Tipsy Fig - Milton, South Coast NSW

You are almost close to reaching Ulladulla down the NSW South Coast, after around three hours drive from the Big Smoke of Sydney. In Ulladulla Harbour, young men still swim out to retrieve a cross thrown by the Orthodox priest as part of year start festivities and rituals - and you a re so far away from the Greek Isles.   Summer is a busy time for holiday makers, school children and families spending some chill out time - and they all seem to converge, like honey bees to a pot, at Milton Village, just before Ulladulla if you come from the north.  You cannot miss this out, the parked cars by the single main road, the throngs of holiday makers enjoying a bit of lunch or shopping and with an almost carnival air.  In the middle of it all, tucked away in a shopping green is the Tipsy Fig.

With  a mix of modern Australian fare, friendly staff welcome guests to sit in the green house like covered verandah with an almost perfect view of watching the surrounding shops.   Many could be there just passing by on the way further south or north, but I noted that all guests looked relaxed and enjoyed the best of both Australian produce and a bright ambiance about the place.  Staff took the effort to explain the vagaries and details of dishes.  I felt like in a garden setting on a day with no care, even if I had things to do later on after a quick rest for lunch.   Milton does not face the sea as it has cliffs nearby but reminds me of a typical English countryside feel.  I am sure during winter there is another kind of cosy atmosphere provided.  Also open for dinner, corkage is charged at the Tipsy Fig but I enjoyed a respite here after driving for a while.  The restaurant is open for both lunch and at night only from Wednesdays to Saturdays.

I thoroughly enjoyed the brandy snaps with perfect strawberries.   The local antiques lady further up the main road had recommended me another place to eat but this was closed that afternoon.  Instead I was delighted to discover this easy gem in the Fig.  A turn off nearby takes you to the excellent beach of Mollymook.  Both seafood and meats feature in the menu at the Fig, with light salads in interesting combinations.  Would I return?  A definite yes, for the way the Fig settles guests in with not just good choices but more importantly in an over all good feel!