6. Bendigo Community Farmers' Market
Whether you’re doing the groceries or enjoying a roving meal among the stalls, you can buy straight from Bendigo’s best producers at the community farmers' market. The weekend market takes place every second Saturday of the month, with a weekly market every Thursday.
7. El Gordo
Follow the fairy lights down Chancery Lane to discover a colourful slice of Spain at El Gordo. The laneway is regularly pumping with live music and art exhibits, with Bendigo locals tucking into plates of authentic tapas, including Jamón Serrano bocadillo and sardines in olive oil. Check ahead for their everchanging dinner events.
8. The Dispensary
Delve deeper into Chancery Lane and you’ll also find The Dispensary, a bar and diner that borrows from Melbourne's speakeasy culture. The contemporary menu is crowd-pleasingly snackable, and the ‘Lucky Seven’ sharing option is ideal for the indecisive. The drink list is eclectic, however, gin and whisky nerds will froth over the monthly flight tasting classes.
9. The Woodhouse Bar and Grill
Expertly grilled meat is the name of the game at The Woodhouse Bar and Grill. Bendigo’s only dedicated steakhouse is also ranked one of the best in Australia. Let the smoky aromas of redgum and applewood wash over you as you peruse a menu featuring the likes of wagyu brisket skewers, pork belly and scotch fillet.
10. Gold Mines Hotel
The charming exterior of the Gold Mines Hotel (which dates back to 1861) will draw you into its modern dining space that oozes history and country charm. Whether you dine inside or in the garden, you will feel as though you're wandering through the forest, with lush plants filling the warmly-lit space. Take your seat and rejoice as the wine keeps flowing and the kitchen keeps serving everything from oysters and soft shell crab to charcuterie boards and grass-fed Australian beef.