Chef’s guide to Ballarat’s best eating and drinking

The regional gold mining town is behind some seriously good eating and drinking. Here are five to visit on your next trip.

These are the best places to eat and drink in Ballarat.

Here’s how to spend the ultimate weekend of eating and drinking in Victoria’s famous goldmining town, according to Mr Jones owner and chef Damien Jones.

A newcomer to Ballarat’s coffee scene is already the talk of the town.

Best place for a coffee and breakfast

Cobb’s Coffee

This is my go-to for my much-needed morning double shot. It’s found in a cool heritage building near the corner of Lydiard and Sturt streets. It’s always busy, but the service is super fast – nobody wants to wait for their first coffee of the day. Plus the coffee is always consistent. Melbourne’s Rumble Coffee Roasters are on the machine; it’s a bit nutty, chocolatey with just the right amount of bitterness. They also serve sangas for breakfast on the go.

2 Lydiard St

“There’s no fancy jus here, just gravy”. Picture: Instagram.

Best counter meal and beer

The Grapes Hotel

This old-school pub is a real gem to walk into. It’s the right venue for a fantastic pot of cold crisp lager in a chilled glass. You’ll be surrounded by familiar faces and newcomers, both young and old. The food focuses on comforting classics. There’s no fancy jus here, just gravy, mashed potato with a few lumps and a good pork sausage. Perfect.

121 Grant St, Golden Point

Take a trip to Italy via Carboni’s. Picture: Instagram.

Where I take the family

Carboni’s Italian Kitchen

Carboni’s is a relaxed, family friendly restaurant that reminds me of the bustling streets of Naples. The flavours are unpretentious and everything works together in harmony. The pizza is wood-fired, perfectly charred and loaded with the right amount of toppings. Fluffy potato gnocchi is a real winner, served with housemate pork and fennel sausage and a hint of truffle. They also have great options for kids and those with dietary requirements.

152 Eureka St, Ballarat East

There is no other place to stock the pantry in Ballarat. Picture: Instagram.

Where I stock the pantry, fridge and freezer

Campanas Deli

This place has been trading since 1976. You’ll be won over with their fantastic range of local and imported cheeses and all the quality condiments to go alongside. An equally exceptional wines and spirits range allows the chance to try something new. Campanas is Ballarat’s oldest family-run businesses with lots of local history.

301 Mair St

Local chef Liam Downes has made the truffle farm tree change. Picture: Instagram

When I want to be a little fancy

Black Cat Truffles

When I’m craving a daytime indulgence, I make the short trip from Ballarat. Chef and owner Liam Downes is behind the farm’s restaurant and he’s incredible. The venue is top-notch boasting excellent execution of fantastic French-European inspired food, beautiful wines, and an amazing team. I’m always blown away by the flavours, skills, creativity, and passion behind Black Cat Truffles.

150 Howards Rd, Wattle Flat