Chef’s guide to Victoria’s best regional restaurants
Pack the car, Melbourne’s top chefs have shared their hit-list of the best regional restaurants to visit this summer. SEE THE LIST.
Food
Don't miss out on the headlines from Food. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Pack the car — these are the best places to eat and drink in the regions according to Melbourne’s top chefs.
OCEAN GROVE
TY SIMONS
Head chef, owner The Driftwood cafe
Napona
When lockdown forced restaurants to switch up their offering, Napona started making pizzas. Without doubt these are the best in Ocean Grove. They are made from hand-stretched sourdough bases topped with simple, quality ingredients – this is how pizza should be done. Enjoy one on the deck in the warmer months or enjoy the perks of takeaway or delivery to home. Their dine-in menu is beautiful, too, made with fresh and local produce lovingly prepared by Will and the team.
24 Hodgson St
The Grove Coffee Co.
Dom moved to Ocean Grove from Tassie a couple of years ago and has been making consistently good coffee ever since. A very simple menu that doesn’t get in the way of the caffeinated drinks means all of Dom’s energy goes into making great coffee. It’s tucked away (don’t blink or you’ll miss it) and well worth crossing the road for. A simple offering done very well.
2/85 The Terrace
Paradise Parlour
This is Ocean Grove’s only house made ice-cream. Paradise Parlour uses quality ingredients to make an ever-changing mix of wonderful flavours, from kid and adult-friendly classics such as rich chocolate and salted caramel, to the more adventurous delights of tiramisu, Black Forest and pistachio. Plans to introduce ice-cream cakes and house made stick ice-creams are well under way.
3/62 The Terrace
Chang Noi
The team at Chang Noi has been serving authentic, tasty Thai for a few years now and have hit the right note with locals. The restaurant has just undergone a revamp and looks great. Eating in is a great experience, with a good range of local wines, and their takeaway never disappoints – we always order too much.
64B The Terrace
The Piping Hot Chicken Shop
A classic, 1950s-inspired diner with great live music. Tami has been serving burgers, chips, and all things chicken for about 30 years. The venue has a sweet spot in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. It has great food in a fun, memorabilia-filled space. They often have fabulous live music, and these nights book out fast. Musicians come from as far as the United States to play at a little shop on the Bellarine.
6/63A The Terrace
Bliss and Co Wholefoods
This store has an amazing variety of wholefoods and household products. Bring your own containers and fill up with as much – or as little – as you want. Friendly staff, great vibes and you can even grab a coffee while you are shopping.
64A The Terrace
HEALESVILLE
JOEL ALDERDICE
Head chef TarraWarra Estate
Payten and Jones
Across the road from Four Pillars is an intimate cellar door where they make wine from local vineyards as well as importing some beautiful drops from Spain. This is generally where I go for a knock-off after a shift – Troy and I usually have a beer and a glass of Amaro or two while chatting about life. The venue is a really fun spot where you can taste great stuff in an approachable way, while enjoying live music and great tunes all the time.
3 Lilydale Rd
Habituel
The head baker, Tahlida Davidson, makes the most beautiful sourdough from a 15-year-old stiff levain and wholegrain milling flour. It’s bulk fermented for four hours, and proved for 24 hours. I particularly love the seeded loaf, which we pick up daily and serve at TarraWarra with our plant-based macadamia and carrot butter. They also sell a beautiful selection of pastries and the coffee is roasted in house – my go-to is the canelé with a double espresso.
314 Maroondah Hwy
Healesville Organic Farmers Market
Every Saturday at Coronation Park, local producers fill the stalls with their amazing goods. Helen and Chris from Timbarra Farm supply us with vegetables and Jack from Stone and Crow Cheese Company supplies our cheese we use at the cellar door. Try the Night Walker from Stone and Crow – it’s a 180g washed rind cows’ milk cheese that is insanely creamy and perfect on Habituel Bakery baguette.
Coronation Park
Yarra Yering
Technically located in Gruyere, this winery is at the foothills of the Warramate Hills. The cellar door experience is a very special one that features one of the best views in the Yarra Valley, and the wines Sarah Crowe creates from this historic sight are exceptional. The cute cat and dogs that hang around to greet you are an added plus.
4 Briarty Rd, Gruyere
Willow & Jackson
Once a week, on my days off, I go to Willow & Jackson in the main strip for brunch with my partner. We always get the same thing – a double vodka with freshly juiced orange, a double espresso and a toasted focaccia BLAT with a fried egg. They are always welcoming, friendly and relaxed, which keeps us coming back.
Ground Floor, 177 Maroondah Hwy
SORRENTO
NICK DELIGIANNIS
Head chef Audrey’s
Sardo Sorrento
A Sorrento Icon, pushing out fresh pasta and other beautiful Italian delights such as beef carpaccio and an assortment of antipasto. Daily specials really keep the menu fresh and new, the rabbit ragu with fresh cavatelli and the seafood linguine are must-tries. It also has a great variety of wines by the glass and classic cocktails such as a generous negroni and the absolute banging espresso martini.
26 Ocean Beach Road
Baked in Sorrento
Baked in Sorrento has become my morning ritual and is a great one at that. The iced latte with a beef and pepper pie goes a long way on a sunny morning. Other pie flavours include lamb and rosemary, cheesy cauliflower and beef burgundy, which is another favourite of mine. The bakery also has a great selection of cold rolls, doughnuts, pastries and drinks and is the perfect spot to get your day going.
53 Ocean Beach Road
Bistro Elba
Sorrento’s hidden boasts southern French cuisine with beautiful freshly shucked oysters and classic beef tartare with a rich egg yolk and crispy potato crisps. There is the option to glam up your night with some caviar and buckwheat blinis. A great place to be if you want to crack open a bottle of Burgundy with amazing food and vibes. A must try.
100-102 Ocean Beach Road
Fish Fetish
I remember being a kid and riding the ferry from Queenscliff to Sorrento and begging my parents for fish and chips. Back then I just loved being outside and stuffing my face with that
fried goodness. As an adult, I appreciate the quality of food Fish Fetish delivers. It has airy crisp battered barramundi, fat chips and cold drinks. It is truly one of my guilty pleasures.
27 Ocean Beach Rd
Buckley
Buckley has become a day off essential with some great options for an early brekkie or brunch. They offer a variety of classics and new age cafe food. The prawn and kimchi omelette is a winner. It’s a great option for a catch up drink as they offer a few wines by the glass, as well as beers and ciders. You can’t beat it on a sunny day.
174 Ocean Beach Road
BALNARRING
TOBY MARKS
Head chef Rare Hare Food and Wine
Ciao bella
The best Italian in the area. The food is traditional and heroes fresh ingredients in every dish. The owners do a wonderful job supporting local suppliers. The heirloom tomato and ricotta pizza is one of my favourites, and Ciao Bella’s buffalo mozzarella melts in your mouth.
2998 Frankston-Flinders Rd
Le Bouchon
Step into this brasserie and you’re instantly transported to France. Le Bouchon has such a great, casual setting and the food is excellent. The restaurant is a go-to for locals and Stephane the owner is passionate about food and wine. If there’s a chance to head down for a steak and frites, I’m there.
10/2-8 Russell St
Red Hill Baker
There’s a bakery in every country town and the Red Hill Baker is my go-to. It’s easy with the kids – the choices are endless and it’s the perfect spot to pick up a pastry or fresh roll before heading to the homestead for a picnic. It’s one of my favourite things to do with my daughter.
3000 Frankston-Flinders Rd
Merricks General Store
This one is in Merricks, but it’s my one-stop shop. I’ve been coming here for years. It’s great for coffee, perfect for breakfast or lunch, a glass of wine or even to pick up some produce. The garden is a beautiful spot to sit and relax, or to wander through – it’s peaceful and a nice place to start the day off.
3460 Frankston-Flinders Rd, Merricks
The Heritage
This is my favourite pub in the area. It’s tricky to find a pub that’s family friendly with great food, but The Heritage ticks both boxes. There’s a great outdoor area where the kids can run around and let off some steam while the adults tuck into a beer and a parma. Easily the best in the area.
3059 Frankston-Flinders Rd
MORNINGTON
SIMON TARLINGTON
Wowee Zowee Bar, Loosies Diner, Slims Hot Pizza
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
BELLARINE
DWAYNE BOURKE
Executive chef Jack Rabbit Vineyard
Mr Mussels
Mr Mussels is our supplier at Jack Rabbit. Portarlington Mussels are one of our most popular dishes – you can even see the mussel beds from our restaurant. We are incredibly fortunate to get delivery direct from the bay daily. Mr Mussels also sells fresh mussels from the pier at Portarlington every weekend of the year (and every day in summer) making it so easy to grab a few kilograms of the freshest mussels to take home.
Portarlington Pier, 2A Harding St, Portarlington
White Fisheries
These guys always have the freshest local seafood. The family-run business is made up of a group of fishermen who share approximately 40 years’ experience. They run their own boats and have built strong relationships with other local fishermen. White Fisheries supply more than 150 restaurants in the area. They also have an extremely busy retail shop with queues often out of the door and up the road. My family has a Good Friday seafood tradition and White Fisheries always come through with the goods.
1/35-39 Murradoc Rd, Drysdale
The Range @ Curlewis
I spend a lot of time with my family here. It has a fun and casual approach, which keeps everyone entertained. The driving range has interactive shot-by-shot details, as well as a great minigolf course for the kids. The Range also has very approachable, value-for-money food, such as super tasty burgers, and an extensive beer and wine list.
1201 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis
Merne at Lighthouse
This is one of the Bellarine’s most premium dining destinations with great views across the olive groves. The team has a professional approach to all aspects of the business. The food is carefully and respectfully prepared by a very skilled kitchen. The front of house is led by experienced and passionate professionals. Merne has a strong wine list and impressive beer selection. It’s always a treat if you’re looking for something a little different to match with the amazing offerings.
650 Andersons Rd, Drysdale
The Whiskery
This is a great adult spot to sit, relax and enjoy some grown-up drinks. Think beautifully crafted whiskey, gin and cocktails with light snacks. We use Whiskery gin at Jack Rabbit across both the food and drinks menu. It’s such a quality product with amazing aromatics on display. The venue is very welcoming and a really comfortable spot to sit and spend an afternoon. Knowledgeable staff passionate about what they do tops off the experience.
2 Scotchmans Road, Drysdale
CREAM OF THE CROP: AUSTRALIA’S TOP 20 RESTAURANTS IN 2022
GEELONG
MATT PODBURY
Head chef La Cachette Bistrot
Marko’s Charcoal Chicken and Souvlaki Bar
A fantastic family-run takeaway shop in Herne Hill. Everything is done in house and the souvas and rotisserie chickens are cooked properly over charcoal. It’s exceptional and consistent. It’s my favourite feed in Geelong by a country mile. I always order a lamb souva with a side of ancient grain and yoghurt salad. Pro tip is to buy a box of grilled lamb rotisserie meat and add it to the grain salad for delicious overkill.
13 Minerva Rd, Herne Hill
The Cheese Society
Alain Sparey runs a small deli counter inside Union Cellars in Herne Hill (next door to Marko’s). This geezer lives and breathes cheese and carries a great range of, in my opinion, some of the best cheeses around. Not to mention cured meats and the most impressive selection of premium tinned seafood. Think L’etivaz alpine cheese from Switzerland or Irish Coolea. Phenomenal.
15 Minerva Rd, Herne Hill
Union Cellars
Lewis and Andy, and their team, run Union Cellars which has two locations alongside their bar; Union Street Wine Bar. They stock a fantastic range of wine to suit most palates and budgets – ranging from lo-fi super-natties to high-end grower champagne and also something for the classic wine drinker too. After a quick chat to some of the most genuine people in wine, you’ll always leave with something unique in hand. The team is always super generous with their time and have great pride in what they do, and I love that.
6 Union St, Geelong
Archive Wine Bar
Graham and Ingrid Sutherland have a fantastic bar and they consistently have more than 150 wines available by the glass. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy a larger variety of wines you might otherwise not be able to. The fantastic cellar program means Graham is always pulling rabbits out of hats and stocking the list with absolute gems.
140 High St, Belmont
Born and Bread Bakehouse
A fantastic bakery that’s rapidly becoming a Geelong institution. We use their sourdough at La Cachette and I find it the most consistent and highest quality in town. In 2021, controversially, Born and Bread stopped selling wholesale to restaurants and cafes, so they could focus on maintaining consistency in their small facility and continue to provide their staff great working conditions. I have unmeasurable respect for people with that kind of work ethic and commitment to consistency. We are just lucky we have my dad, Jeff, to go and line up each morning to buy bread for La Cachette.
Shop 2, 364 Pakington Street, Newtown
MT BULLER
JAMES TURNO
Executive chef at The Villager
Alpine Retreat Hotel
When you just want to be able to relax, this is my favourite spot. I like to enjoy a Mountain Goat Steam Ale and shoot some pool, or watch the Blues on one of the venue’s 20 screens. The warm and hearty pizzas are great accompaniments to cold beer.
6 Stirling Rd
Donuts
Hidden underneath one of the chairlifts is a secret doughnut maker. Whenever I’m nearby, I can’t help but walk away with a paper bag full of these hot, crispy and deliciously sweet doughnuts. It reminds me of buying produce at the Queen Victoria Market when I’m in Melbourne.
1 Summit Rd
Harry Burns
The team behind much-loved restaurant Snow Pony have reimagined the venue over recent months, and it will reopen as Harry Burns in June – just in time for the snow season. Think Asian-inspired cuisine and fantastic cocktails – I can’t wait to see the menu.
231 Summit Rd
Merchant Coffee Roasters
This is my favourite spot in the area for a caffeine fix – they roast their coffee in-house to highlight and emphasise the flavour of the bean. You must try their pistachio and white chocolate muffins, which are baked fresh in the cafe.
221 Mt Buller Rd, Mansfield
The Loft Bar at Breathtaker
Sometimes after a long day on the line you need a stiff, well-made cocktail – and The Loft Bar is just the place. The Australian Negroni is a belter and really hits the spot, as it uses only Australian ingredients.
8 Breathtaker Rd
New-Age Greek snack bar is everything we love about eating out
This Yarraville eatery seats 15 people inside, has 11 items on the menu and nothing costs more than $24 a plate. It’s also everything we could ask for in a restaurant right now.
How much more restaurant meals cost compared to five years ago
Meal prices at some restaurants have tripled over the past five years, but chefs and owners say the industry is broken and they’re in dire need of help.