Best Restaurants around Queenscliff

Queenscliff on the Bellarine Peninsula is nothing short of breathtaking. A popular day trip from Melbourne with a museum to explore, spectacular views out across Port Phillip Bay and top-notch places to stop, relax and refresh. We’ve compiled a list of the best restaurants in Queenscliff and along the Bellarine Peninsula to discover on your travels. Whether your destination is Point Lonsdale, Barwon Heads or Drysdale, here’s our local foodie tips to enjoy.

Restaurants in Queenscliff

This tiny seaside town famous for its oceanside views is well worth the drive. When you get hungry, here’s a few fabulous restaurants and wine bars to add to your list to explore.

Shelter Shed Eatery & Bar

Wines from the local regions dominate this casual eatery’s wine list. You’ll find a good selection of Best’s Wines by the glass at Shelter Shed Eatery & Bar to accompany Murray Valley pork cutlets or mussels steamed in white wine. Friday night is dumpling night – but make sure you book.

Queenscliff Farm Foods

Stop in at this excellent butcher, deli and providore to purchase aged free-range and grass-fed meats, as well as local wines (including Best’s). There are complimentary pairings with local dry goods and a large selection of soft and firm cheeses and tasting plates. Perfect for a light lunch or to gather ingredients for a picnic.

Queenscliff Brewhouse

The Queenscliff Brewhouse showcases the best of the region in one venue. They have an enormous selection of local and national wines, including Best’s Wines, Great Western Riesling. You can also sample the Queenscliff gin from the onsite distillery, or their Prickly Moses beers also brewed onsite. Knowledgeable staff can guide you through gin, beer, or wine tastings, while you enjoy fabulous local produce grazing platters or dinner in the family friendly bistro. Their bistro menu changes with the seasons and it is very popular amongst the Queenscliff locals. Definitely worth a visit!

     

360Q

If spectacular views are what you’re looking for, 360Q on the waterfront at Queenscliff Harbour has two options to choose from. Downstairs has casual dining options for breakfast, lunch and dinner or there is a function space upstairs with breathtaking views. It’s well known for the fresh seafood, give the calamari a try – it’s legendary with the locals. Be warned, you’ll often need to book in advance over summer so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Image Source: 360Q

Our favourite wine bar in Point Lonsdale

Just around the corner from Queenscliff, on the south east point of the Bellarine Peninsula, you’ll find the beautiful town of Point Lonsdale, with the iconic Point Lonsdale Lighthouse built in 1902 overlooking Port Philip Bay. There’s one place that’s top of our list when we’re in this part of town and it’s also a great supporter of local producers.

Noble Rot

This specialist wine store sells over 250 local and imported wines for both take away and in-house consumption, as well as wines by the glass with accompaniments in the form of a delicious an ever-changing menu of seasonal dishes made with local produce. It’s the perfect place to refuel after a long days walk around the Headland. Be sure to visit Noble Rot! Put it on your list and be sure to let us know what you were drinking.

Food and wine spots in Barwon Heads

Popular over the summer months, Barwon Heads quaint village feel makes it a hive of activity with locals and tourists alike. There’s a few local institutions that are our go to places for food and wine.

At The Heads

It’s hard to miss the iconic restaurant ‘At the Heads’, located on the jetty with unparalleled views out to the ocean. With live music on Friday and Sunday afternoons and an all day menu to suit even the most discerning of palates, this is the cool place to be.

Barwon Heads Wine Store

This specialist store stocks one of the best ranges of wine, beer, cider and spirits in the region, with a strong focus on local producers. Check out Barwon Heads Wine Store today and keep them in mind for your party needs – they can sort out any local event large or small.

Image Source: At the Heads

Iconic Dining in Drysdale

Merne at Lighthouse

A must visit destination when you’re in this part of town. Merne at Lighthouse has panoramic views overlooking a spectacular landscape, home to farms, dairies, orchards and vegetable growers. Popular for weddings and functions, there’s a mouth-watering menu bursting with goodness. We’re a fan of the grazing course that lets the chefs choose the best regional produce. It’s no wonder that this amazing restaurant cleaned up for their food and service at recent 2019 Golden Plate State Awards.

The Bungalow Restaurant

From local mussels to a superfood salad, there’s lots to enjoy at The Bungalow. Named after the building that’s an early 1930s Californian bungalow, it’s long been a local institution known for it’s food especially during the week where it’s a popular choice for lunch. Also open for dinner Friday and Saturday nights. If casual is what you’re looking for, this is a lovely choice with great support for local winemakers too.

Image Source: Merne Restaurant

Heading further afield in your travels?

Find one of Melbourne’s top wine bars and discover places to stop when travelling to The Grampians.