Rowville’s historic Stamford Park Homestead restaurant has opened its doors for the first time to the general public, marking the culmination of years of careful restoration work and upgrades to this heritage-listed venue.
The homestead, built in 1882 by Edward and Emmeline Row, is a rare surviving example of 19th century architecture in metropolitan Melbourne, and features Gothic gables, fretted barge boards, intricate wrought iron and five metre-high ceilings.
Its ornate rooms and decorations will now play host to local residents and visitors from across Knox and Melbourne, and offer an accessible fine-food dining experience, amid expansive gardens and picturesque nearby wetlands.
Located in the heart of the exciting multi-million dollar Stamford Park Redevelopment in Rowville, the homestead is located only 28 kilometres south-east of Melbourne’s CBD, en route to the Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges.
Knox City Council signed a lease with renowned Melbourne restauranteur, Jason M Jones in 2018, to launch the new restaurant, while also undertaking significant restoration and upgrade works to the historic Victorian-era homestead, one of only three to survive in Knox from this era.
The restaurant, which will feature produce sourced from Knox and the Yarra Valley, will be open for dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, and breakfast, brunch, lunch and high tea seven days a week – and will also be available for functions and weddings upon request.
 Front of Stamford Park Homestead restaurant |  Outdoor garden seating area |
As stated by Mayor, Cr Jake Keogh:
- This is a wonderful occasion for Rowville, the City of Knox and indeed Melbourne, as we celebrate the rejuvenation and re-opening to the public, of one of our most treasured and historic old homesteads.
- Council has been delighted to work in partnership with renowned restauranteur, Jason M Jones, in bringing his vision for the future of the Stamford Park Homestead to fruition.
- Not only does the new restaurant honour and respect the rich history of the Stamford Park Homestead, it does so in a way that will bring enjoyment and fascination to all who visit here.
- On behalf of Council, I encourage locals and visitors to Knox alike, to take a moment to come and enjoy this wonderful home and scenery, and to enjoy the fine food and dining experiences on offer.
As stated by Stamford Park Homestead proprietor, Jason M Jones:
- We have been delighted to work in partnership with Knox City Council to bring our new restaurant to life in this wonderful and historic building, one of Melbourne’s hidden treasures!
- My childhood memories were of growing up in an 1859 homestead in Maffra and, since that time, I have been fascinated by old homesteads like Stamford Park.
- While the surroundings might be stately, we want people to know that this is a warm, friendly and accessible place to come for a bite to eat, enjoy the scenic surroundings and take in the rich history and heritage of this place.
- Whether it’s a walk around the gardens, a coffee on the verandah overlooking picturesque wetlands or sitting down for a fine meal, we want to share with our community the unforgettable experience that is the Stamford Park Homestead.
