Food fit for health

By Dion Teasdale
THE Upper Yarra RSL in Yarra Junction offers a range of exciting dining options for patrons.
In addition to the sub-branch’s daily seniors’ meals and week-day lunchtime specials, the RSL is introducing a new menu featuring gluten-free meals.
Head chef Tyrone McKenzie said the sub-banch was responding to an increased demand for healthier menu choices.
“We will be using gluten-free ingredients to create traditional bistro favourites,” he said.
“In recent times, the number of people looking for gluten-free options has increased and the new gluten-free menu will complement the sub-branch’s many other menu options.” The dining room offers a seniors’ menu seven days a week for lunch and dinner.
Seniors who purchase a main meal at lunchtime from Monday to Saturday receive a complimentary soup or dessert (offer excludes Sundays and public holidays).
“We also have a weekly lunchtime special menu available Monday to Saturday each week which includes bistro classics such as steak or chicken parmigiana for $13, or the fish of the day for $10,” Mr McKenzie said.
The sub-branch also serves a range of light meals and snacks at lunchtime, including a selection of delicious homemade desserts.
“With our special deals and daily specials boards and regular menu, the Upper Yarra RSL has one of the largest menus in the Yarra Valley,” Mr McKenzie said.
The sub-branch’s regular menu features a range of not-quite-so-naughty meals.
Including dishes such as the not-so-creamy carbonara and the naked parmigiana, these meals are designed for diners who are conscious of their waistline.
Other regular menu highlights include starters such as the famous cheese and chive bread, made using traditional Italian ciabatta bread, and entrees such as garlic prawns.
“I’m told they are the best garlic prawns in Australia by people who have travelled all over the country,” Mr McKenzie said.
The regular menu also features a range of pasta dishes, side orders, chicken and seafood dishes, a children’s menu and an extensive wine list with a selection of Yarra Valley wines.
With the end of daylight savings, the sub-branch is changing its bistro hours. The bistro will be open for lunch from noon to 2pm and for dinner from 5.30pm to 8pm seven days a week.
Bookings are essential and visitors are welcome. Phone 5967 1771.
The sub-branch hosts a cash draw for community members every Saturday night between 7pm and 8pm.
Guests are invited to visit and find out about becoming a member.