Dining

You don't have to travel far from Melbourne to sate your appetite for unforgettable meals created by star chefs using farm-fresh local produce accompanied by signature wines.

Dining with a view
Gorge on super-fresh seafood in Mediterranean style at eateries overlooking the water. Head inland to restaurants like Max's at Red Hill Estate for unforgettable views of the rolling hills to the bay.

Tuck in among the vines
Relax among the vines for homegrown wines matched with mouthwatering chef creations made from local harvests. Try Paradigm Hills' weekend tasting plates, Stillwater at Crittenden, or Foxey's Hangout's well-balanced snacks.

The tiny pocket of Main Ridge and Red Hill boasts as many as five restaurants that have been endowed with hats in the esteemed The Age Good Food Guide 2012. Make a booking for long lunches with friends or degustation dinners at La Petanque, Montalto, Port Phillip Estate, Ten Minutes by Tractor and The Long Table.

All-season al fresco
Take a break from the grape and fill up on seasonal plates at Heronswood Estate, Flinders Hotel and Merricks General Store.

Slip into the local fish and chippery for a parcel of their finest, or gather organic produce from roadside stalls and enjoy lazy al fresco lunches on the beach or by the vines.