We spoke to Lizzie Loel, Owner of Newstead’s Short Order, about her favourite weekday dinners, and who she would dine with.

Favourite international holiday destination, and why?

India — the food, the colours, the chaos and the food!

Ultimate Australian escape, and why?

North Stradbroke Island — Straddie is one of our best kept secrets, pristine beaches and largely untouched landscapes, inland lakes and bay access.

Which do you prefer – country or city living, and why?

I would like both — city through the week and a small farm in the hinterland (Maleny would work!) for weekends and holidays.

Favourite room in your home, and why?

My kitchen. It is compact but it works for me.

If you could have dinner with anyone, who would it be, and what would you serve?

Elizabeth David. It would be terrifying but I would make her onion tart for lunch and pair it with a watercress salad and some rose from Provence.

A weekend in spring is best spent …

Relaxing at the beach.

Favourite weekday dinner?

Barbecue lamb cutlets, grilled lemony haloumi, romesco sauce and a caprese salad with buffalo mozzarella.