**Owners George & Aldy Johnston work hard to create a magnificent experience.**

A hidden gem of natural and culinary delights

by Tanya Outridge

**The Cafe is renowned for its high teas.**

In 2019 Secrets on the Lake Cafe of Montville was recognized with the AGFG (Australian Good Food Guide) People’s Choice Award, and for regular patrons to this hidden gem, there is no secret as to why.

“I think our visitors have come to consider this place as a destination because of our location and surroundings, as much as the food and hospitality,” said owner, Aldy Johnston.

Secrets on the Lake is nestled at the end of Narrows Road Montville and the deck seems to ‘float’ among the trees in the lush rainforest canopy, right on the shores of tranquil Lake Baroon.

Diners are surrounded by and intimately connected with nature, from the dappled sunlight flickering through the leafy canopy, to the abundant birdlife. The Deck has been crafted with all the trademark exquisite carvings and attention to detail for which the Johnston family and Secrets on the Lake has become famous.

**The fish of the day was magnificent barramundi.**

“There is no doubt that this place has a very special energy,” said Aldy.

“But it is not just because of the stunning surroundings. This place is our home and so that is the type of welcome George and I extend to our guests.

“Sometimes we notice that couples arrive and they are quite tense after a long drive. Usually because they have had a row on the Bruce Highway!” she laughed. “George or myself will give them a little tour of the place and chat with them about the history and before you know it, they are smiling and holding hands. They will often tell us that coming here has been the highlight of their trip,” she said.

“We have a fabulous tight knit team here and we all offer hospitality in the same way. I think people return again and again and bring their friends and family because they feel welcome and relaxed.”

**Pasture raised, grain fed charred eye fillet.**

The atmosphere at Secrets is enhanced by the incredible food prepared in-house by Alan and Jon, our head chefs, and their talented team.

“We are very proud of our menu, which changes with the seasons to showcase our fantastic local produce,” said Aldy.

“Everything is fresh and flavoursome and I am especially happy with the superb dessert menu our chefs have designed. It is exactly as I wanted it to be. Every mouthful is just right!”

You can enjoy a delicious range of morning and afternoon tea melt-in-your-mouth sweet treats, including a large array of gluten free options. Secrets is renowned for its stunning high teas, ideal for special celebrations and gathering with friends..

“We can cater for groups of up to 80 people and have some great group packages available,” Aldy said.

“I think there may be a perception that only guests of our cottages are able to use the restaurant, but it is open to everyone. We have many repeat local diners and diners from Noosa to Brisbane.”

Secrets on the Lake’s Dining on the Deck Restaurant is also the stunning, night time reception venue for many weddings held at the charming Lakehouse or magnificent Secrets Garden.

“We have a fully licensed bar and are open 6 days a week serving breakfast from 8:30am during the week and 8am on weekends,” Aldy said.

“Lunch is available from 11am, and we serve champers, coffee and cake until 4pm.”

The cafe is closed on Mondays and some public holidays.

“I strongly advise people to book a table, to avoid disappointment,” said Aldy. “The last thing we want is for people to miss out.”

Secrets on the Lake is at 207 Narrows Rd, Montville. Phone 5478 5888 for information about how Secrets can help.