A Sunday lunch anywhere with three kids is anything but relaxing, so last weekend I called ahead to Lythwood Lodge in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands to check if they were child friendly. "Yes," came the sweet reply. "We have rolling lawns for the kids to play on."And so they did.The pastoral scene of distant, grazing cows and expansive lush lawns peppered with oak trees was indeed pleasing to the eye and I sent the kids exploring and collecting acorns within eyesight, while I sipped delightful French champagne with one eyeball permanently glued to the back of my head.Sitting on the terrace of their lovely old building, listening to the sound of a fountain trickling nearby with my brood in the background, I almost felt part of the family Von Trapp, only in TheSound of Music you don't see Julie Andrews charging after the captain's children mid-sentence.Lythwood Lodge is mostly a country wedding venue, but had pulled out the red carpet for our little gathering to celebrate a friend's birthday. The chef created a sumptuous chocolate ganache cake that would make a diabetic collapse on sight.And they happily bowed to my many mommy requests.The trick to their success seems to be in having only a few menu options - two starters, three mains and a couple of desserts - of whatever is fresh and in season.My starter of pan-fried garlic butter prawns wrapped in a tortilla were set off perfectly by the hit of sweet peppers and creamy avocado.My succulent beef medallion was so beautifully presented it made me want to weep after far too many years feeding at family restaurants where everything comes with a dollop of sauce and a side order of chips.And my husband declared his main of grilled kingklip with a caper and tomato voloute one of the best he's ever had.A refreshing watermelon sorbet between courses was the perfect touch.What you need to knowWhen to go: When you've found a babysitter.Who to take: With this sort of ambience, an old friend or a new lover.What not to do: Arrive unannounced - bookings are necessary. The menu changes daily and can be adjusted to your every culinary whim.What to drink: Being a wedding venue, the wine list is extensive and impressive.Whatever you do: Take your time and breathe in the fresh airHow much do you need: Not as much as you would think; starters from R40, mains from R95 and desserts from R37.Address: Farm 37, Lidgetton West, KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, 033-234-4666..