Enjoy a slice of Ballarat this August with the return of Ballarat’s Best Pie competition.
Take your pick from more than 35 savoury and sweet pies at some of the city’s top cafes, restaurants and bakeries.
On the menu at The Shared Table is the feral pie.
Beneath the herbed thyme and rosemary pastry with a butter puff lid, you'll find slow braised Wild Otway venison, The Mushroom Connection mushrooms smothered in a venison, red wine, Itinerant Spirits' Gallivanter Gin, juniper berry and caramelised shallot sauce, and served with Spud Sisters colcannon potatoes.
"The creation of our signature pie is more than just a culinary endeavor—it's a reflection of our deep-rooted values and commitment to sustainability," owner and chef Dianne Ray said.
"We collaborate year-round with local suppliers in and around Buninyong, ensuring that every ingredient not only supports our community but also aligns with our zero-waste philosophy.
"A standout feature of our pie is its use of wild venison, sourced from ethical culling programs targeting invasive deer populations.
"Once introduced for sport hunting, these deer have become a significant pest in the Otways, causing extensive damage to native ecosystems and agricultural lands. Rather than allowing this valuable protein to go to waste, we transform it into a delicious filling, turning an environmental challenge into a culinary opportunity."
Vote and win!
For your chance to win a luxury Ballarat weekend escape for two valued at over $3000, cast your vote for the People’s Choice Pie.
The pie with the most votes will be crowned the winner of this new category in early September.
"Our pie is a testament to the power of thoughtful sourcing and the impact of making conscious culinary choices."
