Clare Falzon’s best life
Chef Clare Falzon of restaurant Staguni reveals her favourite moments in life and top places to eat in SA, ahead of this year’s Tasting Australia from May 8-17.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like? An easy no-alarm wake up, a visit to the garden to give the plants a water, and then back into bed with a coffee and a book. Then a whole day with no other obligations except pottering. Plenty of time in the garden, followed by a bush walk with the dog, and then possibly a relaxed dinner out with a special bottle of wine.
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced? Recently I had a stranger in front of me at a cafe pay for my order. They were gone before I was told or could thank them, but it was so unexpected and generous, and made the day feel so much lighter.
What is your favourite photograph? I have so many photos I adore, but a recent one is this one I snapped of my dog, Tate, while I was putting something in the boot at the servo. He’s just so happy and content, and the moment was a really kind reminder of how much I appreciate getting to experience life with him keenly by my side.
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be? I often have open tabs of pieces I’m saving up for or would like to treat myself to, and one I have my eye on at the moment is a Reg Mombassa called Farmhouse with Garden. It reminds me of so many parts of Australia I’m enamoured with. I’d also one day really like to purchase a large piece of Alison Percy, a Victorian artist who I have followed for years and have since built a connection with. Her landscape and wildflower paintings of the Great Dividing Range are striking and impressive. I already have two pieces of hers which are beautiful and hang proudly at home.
Here’s $500. You have to spend it in the next hour – what are you buying? Ohhh, maybe a nice copper jam pot. It’s a ‘some day maybe’ wish list item, which if I do fulfil, will likely be from a secondhand store in France, for affordability. To have a nice one, which is big enough to make a big batch of jam to jar for the year ahead and gifts for loved ones would be such a treat, and a great way to spend a day in the kitchen.
A cafe or restaurant in SA you’d recommend?
My top three are:
Fall From Grace, Aldinga;
The Scenic Hotel, Norton Summit;
Patisserie & Farm Shop by Cheryse Zagler, Barossa Valley
What was the last film or TV show you watched? Last night I had the opportunity to be in bed by 10 and put on School of Rock. Good vibes and giggles.
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Favourite way to unwind? If I get home while the sun’s still up, I’m straight to the garden. Headphones in, there is always something to do, and I can decompress from the day already and burn off some extra energy. There’s always lots of birds in my garden and my dog, Tate, likes to lay nearby. It’s a really nice way to keep my mind and body gently active, and be present.
Last book you read? I Regret Almost Everything by NYC restauranteur Keith McNally.
Last song you listened to? Tyler Childer’s album Snipe Hunter is still in my record player, so the entirety of the album.
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