Sweet Germans descend on Kilkivan

Thus, needless to say it came as a shock stumbling upon the Continental Gourmet House in Kilkivan.

Immediately outstanding was the eccentric blue and red colour-blocked interior, combined with wooden archetypal Australian furniture, adorned with antique tableware, and dappled in soft light from rustic chandeliers- however the food was the real star here.

Even more delightful though, was the authentic, jolly, and heavily German accented greeting received upon entering the cute café.

Behind the counter was Mario from Munich, who specialises in homemade, traditional, Bavarian fare.

When asked for a menu, the response given perfectly encapsulates the laidback nature of the venue.

“We don’t have one, but what can I get you?”

Mario called to owner Thomas Walter - also a structural engineer on the Sunshine Coast - originating from Lower Saxony, Germany, who outlined their unique background, and love for the Australian countryside.

Since 1987 Thomas and Mario had travelled back and forth between Australia and Germany visiting friends, before finally deciding to settle in Albury Wodonga, Victoria.

Deciding that was too cold they moved to Sarina, which was too muggy- making quaint Kilkivan just right.

“It’s not far from everything,” Thomas said.

“We have been here six years and we love the peace and quiet.”

Specialising in German cakes, cheesecakes, and mouth-watering strudels, Mario and Thomas also offer German lunches and groceries.

“Food is very big in Germany, and all of Europe,” Mario said.

“It is such an enjoyable social thing.”

In a quaint German Australian amalgamation – a huge hit among locals – is the iconic meat pie filled with European winter stews.

“The filling is German and the pie around it is Australian,” the pair joked.

Sundays are a particular hit with the local community, located across from the bustling market, and boasting wonderful local music.

Pumping out popular European delights like generations before them, against a quintessential bush backdrop, makes the Continental Gourmet House a must stop for weary travellers.