Bellarine Best Eats, Victoria, Australia

Overview

Geelong’s quiet little sister, the Bellarine Peninsula is located on a charming stretch of Victoria’s western coastline. Boasting an impressive array of epicurean eats championing local produce, this laid-back seaside town is ideal for a relaxed escape from the city. Visitors are spoiled for choice in this region, so here is a guide to the 10 best places to eat across the Bellarine to bookmark for your next visit.

1. Jack Rabbit Vineyard

The belle of the Bellarine for over a decade, Jack Rabbit Vineyard is home to stunning views across Corio Bay, the You Yangs and Melbourne. Known for elegant cool climate wines, the vineyard is home to an a la carte fine diner, café, cellar door and a range of pop-up events including a mussel masterclass. Settle in to enjoy the vistas across the bay with a glass of Sparkling Blanc de Blanc.

2. Terindah Estate

Terindah means ‘most beautiful’ in Indonesian, and this boutique winery nestled on 100 acres of rolling pastures and lush vineyard certainly lives up to its namesake. Boasting a diverse stable of cool climate wines, head along to enjoy a glass with lunch at The Shed, or drop into Terindah Estate’s cellar door and refurbished W Class tram bar. There are occasional cooking classes too, if you’re looking for a special evening event.

3. Pier Street Cafe

Bask in the beachside charm of Pier Street in Portarlington while feasting on fresh, locally-caught seafood. The area of Port Phillip Bay is particularly well-known for its nutrient-rich waters, making the seafood caught here exceptionally fresh and juicy. As one might imagine, mussels are the star of the show at Pier Street Cafe, featured in a swag of freshly made sauces. A range of seasonal seafood, gluten-free and vegan options are also on offer, so there’s a little something for everyone.

4. The Whiskery

Cosy up in this renovated farm shed, an adults-only cellar door retreat at the Bellarine Distillery. The first distillery on the Bellarine Peninsula, Bellarine Distillery is an award-winning producer boasting a stable of botanical-infused gins and barrelled whisky. Mosey through to pick a spot beside the fire, or head to the garden and deck in the warmer months. There’s a curated range of local cheese, produce platters and pizzas to nibble on, alongside G&Ts, cocktails and regional wines.

5. Flying Brick Cider House

Flying Brick Cider House’s naturally-crafted beverages are made with 100% fresh fruit and free from added sugars, colours and concentrates. Pair an original, draught or pear cider with plates from the share-style menu, including grazing platters and a seafood tower for two. Tunes from local artists will flow every Friday and Saturday night, and an onsite food truck pops up on the Flying Brick’s lawn throughout spring and summer.

6. Leura Park Estate

Head to Leura Park Estate in Curlewis for a spot of elegant wining and dining on the Bellarine. This sprawling 150-acre property is home to a stunning restaurant, cellar door and al fresco lawn area. Sip exceptional cool-climate wines and feast on delicious seasonal fare, with tasty options like stone based pizzas, grazing platters and fresh seafood dishes.

7. The Dunes Ocean Grove

Boasting a picture-perfect location right on the shoreline of Ocean Grove, The Dunes is a must-visit spot for fabulous waterfront feasting. The restaurant's carefully curated menu heroes fresh, local and sustainable ingredients, complemented perfectly by handcrafted cocktails and an impressive wine list. Tuck into tasty wood-fired pizzas, burgers, seafood and timeless classics while soaking up incredible beach views.

8. Basils Farm

A dog-friendly venue located in Swan Bay, Basils Farm focuses on highlighting fresh, seasonal produce from both the potager garden and local growers across a rotating menu. Lunch might run to the likes of grilled marinated king prawns, braised Cape Grim short ribs or salt and native pepper squid. A range of Basils Farm wines, spirits, hot drinks and non-alcoholic options are also on offer.

9. Scotchmans Hill

Cool, maritime climate wines are the undisputed heroes at Scotchmans Hill, an award-winning winery first established in 1982. Kick things off by heading to the cellar door, where you'll find wine tastings and local charcuterie boards. Come selected lunchtimes and Friday nights, the undercover alfresco restaurant offers a modern Australian menu with a focus on paired wines. The menu zeroes in on local producers, along with a small selection of rotating specials.

10. At The Heads

Pay a visit to At The Heads for modern Australian cuisine and freshly caught seafood. This iconic Bellarine restaurant is in prime position on the Barwon Heads pier, meaning you'll enjoy unrivalled ocean views while wining and dining here. Indulge in delicious sharing-style dishes like lamb shoulder and fresh market fish, as well as tasty sides and sweet treats. And because the Bellarine is known for its exceptional seafood, it would be rude not to order some fresh oysters or a seafood platter!