by Nick Rowe

Neerim South's emerging hospitality scene has a new kid on the block with the opening of a new restaurant and bar - Neeri Nuff - by locals, Bruce and Margaret MacDougall.

With a pub and brewery already in town, Neerim South residents and visitors are now spoilt for choice with the opening of the new upscale dining venue.
Neeri Nuff opened in October and is fast gaining a reputation for its modern and delicious menu with ingredients sourced mainly from local producers.
Margaret and Bruce are long time foodies and have been living in the area for 13 years. "We like to eat!" Margaret said. "We thought the area needed something like what we enjoy so much so we decided to open our own."
While the idea has been years in the making, the couple began serious planning for the venture in July 2023.
Neeri Nuff is committed to supporting small, local producers and wine makers and this shows through in its menu. Much of the fruit, vegetables, herbs and edible flowers are sourced from the MacDougall's own farm in Neerim South.
Head chef, Connor Turnbull has experience working in Melbourne institutions Vue De Monde and Society and was looking for a change from city life when he spotted Bruce and Margaret's job vacancy. Melbourne dining's loss has become Neerim South's gain as Connor has moved to the area and is working hard to establish Neeri Nuff's reputation.
Margaret said Neeri Nuff's menu was best described as modern Australian with a European flavour. She is working in the kitchen as Connor's second chef and is relishing the opportunity to learn and work with him to develop the restaurant's menu.
"Since opening we have been regularly changing the menu. While this keeps things fresh and interesting, it is also giving us a great insight into what our local and visiting customers like the most," she said.
Bruce said supporting local winemakers also was a focus. "There are a number of Gippsland wines on the menu, including a local option on all our wines by the glass. The wine list is exclusively Australian."
Bruce and Margaret are appreciative of the support they have already received from locals. "We have had some people in five or six times already."