Chef’s guide to Mornington: Where to eat and drink in the Peninsula town
From a ’70s-inspired diner to a quirky cocktail bar and the best steak in town, these are the best places to eat and drink in Mornington.
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From a ’70s-inspired diner slinging burgers to a quirky cocktail bar and the best steak in town, these are the best places to eat and drink in Mornington, according to Doot Doot Doot executive chef Simon Tarlington.
LOOSIE’S DINER AND BAR
Loosie’s is my new baby. We opened seven months ago in Mornington’s backstreets and the burgers are already our bestseller – the patties took several weeks to perfect so they’re doing all the talking. Inspired by LA circa 1970, the diner screams rock n’ roll and transports people to a different era. It’s a place where you can chill out with friends over a burger, have a cocktail at the bar or bring your family for an early bite.
97 Beleura Hill Rd
BRASS RAZU WINE BAR
A Peninsula favourite serving some of my favourite cocktails, in particular the lethal Long Island Iced Tea. It’s relaxed yet quirky and boasts a serious list of more than 300 wines, as well as cocktails and craft beers. One of their best-kept secrets is the bottomless cocktails and pizza they do every Thursday and Sunday.
13 Main St
COUNTING HOUSE BAR AND GRILL
This is my go-to place when I’m craving a steak. The meat melts in your mouth and the views of the beach make the perfect backdrop. The building was built as a bank in the early 1900s and is warm and charming – the team has done a great job at preserving the heritage while bringing it back to life.
787 Esplanade
THE ROYAL HOTEL MORNINGTON
A coastal town always has a good pub and this is it. Casual and fun with a great selection of fresh fish dishes. The beer garden overlooks the water and is the best spot to be on a warm summer’s night. Built in 1855, the facade is one of the most beautiful in the region.
770 Esplanade
MORNINGTON PRIME CUTS
Every chef loves their butcher, and this is mine. Prime Cuts sells O’Connors top quality beef, which melts in your mouth. My favourite cut of steak is the scotch fillet. The staff are always friendly and if I’m feeling a little cheeky, I’ll pick up some bacon for my Sunday breakfast.
1/26 McLaren Pl
FYI: Simon Tarlington is Doot Doot Doot executive chef at Jackalope Hotel on the Mornington Peninsula.
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