A story in the newspaper and a touch of serendipity led David Willcocks to The Argus Dining Room at Peppers Mineral Springs Retreat, Hepburn Springs.

15 – 16 February 2013: From its passion infused beginnings, the restaurant at Peppers Guest House was intended as a meeting place for the flavours and the people of the Pokolbin region and visitors to the Hunter. In recognition of the significance of its location on the Gourmet Food Trail, we’ve created a unique weekend of celebrations centred on the site of the first Peppers, with options to come explore the Hunter with us.

Brought to you by Australian Gourmet Traveller Magazine: Embrace a summer by the sea with a seafood twist. Why not add these brown bread crusted scallops with lemon and pancetta to your Christmas table?

Brought to you by Australian Gourmet Traveller Magazine: Cook like the experts when you're at home with this crisp-skinned Vietnamese chicken and peaches recipe.

Newly appointed General Manager Brian Rooney is now ‘Head of the House' at Peppers Guest House in the Hunter Valley wine country, the historical heart and home of Peppers being the first of the boutique brand’s properties to open in Australia more than 25 years ago.