Where to eat and drink in Geelong

From Parisian-inspired bistros, rocking wine bars and beaut pizza and pasta — here are the best places to eat and drink in Geelong.

It’s hard to pass up the pasta at Caruggi in Geelong. Picture: Supplied.

From two rocking wine bars and two Parisian-inspired bistros, plus some of the best pizza and pasta in town — here’s where you should eat and drink in Geelong, according to Alma Restaurant chef Jesse Hughes.

Union Street Wine is worth a visit in Geelong. Picture: Glenn Ferguson

UNION STREET WINE

Union cellars has recently expanded to a second location on Minerva Rd in Herne Hill, which happens to be a short walk from home. Lewis & Andy stock a great selection of wines from all over the globe, which are delightfully paired with cheeses and charcuterie from Alain at the Cheese Society. The guys have a wealth of knowledge and are true hospo legends.

6-8 Union St and 15 Minerva Rd, Herne Hill

Bistrot St Jean in Moorabool St, Geelong, is oh-so French. Picture: Mitch Bear.

BISTROT ST JEAN

Tony and Stephane have created a true French bistro that transports you to cobblestone streets and the romance of Paris. House-made saucisson, pate and French onion soup are among the classics to start, followed by rotating seasonal dishes such as cassoulet, steak frites and bouillabaisse.

239 Moorabool St

Scallops at The Continental, Geelong.

THE CONTINENTAL

A short stroll from work, I often frequent for lunch before starting my shift. Will is a maestro in the kitchen which makes choosing from the menu difficult but made easier by taking the ever changing pre-fix menus or order some house-made sourdough and cultured butter while you decide.

82 Lt Malop St

Heating up: Sumi is where you’ll find Geelong’s best grill masters.

SUMI

Binchotan coal fuels a grill of Chinese specialities, including fresh local scallops in the half shell topped with vermicelli and Kyle’s secret chilli sauce. Ask Alex to suggest one of his many premium sakes for a delicious evening.

47 Gheringhap St

BISTROT PLUME

A well-polished modern interpretation of French classics. The intimate dining room at Plume has become my place to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and just Sunday lunch sometimes. Nathan and Kate are the perfect hosts and will guide you through the decadent menu and wine list.

56A Pleasant St, Belmont

Taste wines from Bellarine, Moorabool and Greater Geelong at Geelong Cellar Door.

GEELONG CELLAR DOOR

As the name suggests Geelong Cellar Door stocks the amazing producers the Bellarine, Moorabool and Greater Geelong wine regions have to offer as well as a guest list of Australian and international wines by the glass.

99 Lt Malop St

Pizza is also a winner at Caruggi in Geelong. Picture: Peter Ristevski.

CARUGGI

Chef Massimiliano hails from the Liguria region in Italy and serves northern classics, including my favourite focaccia col formaggio; which is the perfect start to any meal here. Massi’s wife Amanda has curated an extensive selection of Italian wines to choose from that can also be bought from their enoteca.

66 Lt Malop St

Alma Restaurant chef Jesse Hughes.

FYI: ALMA restaurant serves South American fare for dinner nightly and lunch Fri-Sun at 93 Ryrie St, Geelong. almarestaurant.com.au