How Many Restaurants Are In Regional Victoria?

When it comes to dining in this state, it can feel as though Melbourne is the only place that truly matters. But if you travel to certain areas in regional Victoria, you'll quickly realise that this perception is false.

You have most likely heard of Brae, which has earned a spot on the list of the World's Best Restaurants not once but twice. If you browse through this collection of eateries, you'll notice that there are a great many more locations that are deserving of a road trip, regardless of the number of hours the drive is. Our tip?

Staying the night and making a weekend out of it will not only make the meal more memorable and special, but it will also add to the overall experience.

Victoria Restaurant Guide

Victoria's best restaurants are outside the city. Innovative chefs use fresh, locally grown ingredients to create regional and international dishes.

These restaurants, some of which have won awards and others of which are local favourites, will entice you to go to places you might not have considered going to and make you feel as though you never want to leave.

Pagliacci’s

What is it: It is a well-known institution of Italian cuisine in the middle of Victoria, and it is the best place to go to enjoy classic dishes at prices that are more than reasonable. This cosy eatery, which first opened its doors in 1979, underwent a thorough makeover not too long ago in order to preserve its warm and welcoming ambience.

Why go: Get there early for happy hour or be prepared to wait in a line if you want to listen to live klezmer, jazz, or gypsy swing to accompany dishes with names like "meet John Doe" and "the prawn broker." Do you have a pal who just can't get enough? Investing a little cash in a Pagliacci gift card is a great way to ensure that everyone you know can get their pasta needs met. Leave the diet at home, because the best way to enjoy carbs and legendary cheesecake is with a glass of red wine.

Red Fish Blue Fish

What is it: This wharfside chippy serves Oceanwise seafood in tempura batter, tacos, or buns.

Why go: Because where else in the world can you sample the fusion delicacy that is jerk fish poutine? A dish that takes its inspiration from Quebec and combines fish from the west coast with jerk sauce from Jamaica and serves it with fries. The ideal way to consume it is while contemplatively staring off into the distance at a group of ravenous harbour seals.

Saveur

What is it: A fine dining restaurant with exposed brick walls, shiny lamps, and a tasting menu with wine pairings and French-inspired west coast ingredients.

Why go: Saveur, one of the hottest spots to open in 2017 and located on the north end of downtown, is a bit off the beaten path. The upcoming year is likely to see full reservation lists as a result of the extensive development that has taken place in the area. You shouldn't miss out on the beef strip loin with bone marrow marshmallow or the halibut cheek served with nettle veloute and puffed wheat berries (really). In addition to that, they offer a selection of regional beers and ciders, as well as specially crafted cocktails that pack a serious alcoholic punch.

Benbow Ramen Bar

What is it: Dining in the style of Tokyo in a cosy and unpretentious little restaurant in the heart of the city. Although it is not particularly large, it is very cosy, and the portions of hot, steaming ramen bowls are more than adequate.

Why go: You must try the pork, chicken, and tomato-based vegetarian broths. Fast, friendly service. Sapporo is on tap. What else is there?

Stage Wine Bar

What is it: When in Victoria, a couple's night out on the town might include a visit to the hip residential neighbourhood of Fernwood, a performance at the Belfry Theatre, and a reservation at Stage Wine Bar either before or after the show. To sop up the libations, larger dishes such as smoked salmon poke or bison sirloin with blackberry sauce offer something meatier to discuss, and small plates such as langos (fried potato bread) are perfect for that.

Why go: After the playlets are over, you can chat with other theatregoers over a glass of wine from Stage's extensive list. Stage is open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

Little Jumbo

What is it: Although the entry may be a little bit reminiscent of a dentist's office (and we all know how much a visit there costs), step a little further. What you'll find here is something completely different. You will stumble upon a restaurant in the style of a speakeasy that is known for its delicious cocktails and tapas pairings.

Why go: Craft cocktails that are original and hand-made, using artisanal ingredients that are sourced from the surrounding area. But who is the real star of the bar? A fountain that dispenses absinthe, elevating libations to an entirely new level. Have you perused the list of alcoholic beverages and are you now prepared to select some upscale food accompaniments? Dig into some luxurious truffle fries or a summer berry pavlova and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Jam

What is it: Breakfast and brunch are extremely popular mealtimes in Victoria, and one restaurant that stands out for its all-day egg extravaganzas is the brick-walled and coffee-scented Jam. The only issue is that each and every other early-rising hipster in the city is in front of you in line, and the venue does not accept reservations. However, once you are inside, you can soothe the pain with inventive cocktails such as the Madras mimosa and the bacon-garnished Bourbonator Caesar.

Why go: It has been said that Jam's naan breakfast burrito can cure hangovers, and the chicken-and-waffles motif can also be found in Benedicts and French toast.

Be Love

What is it: Organic, vegan, and gluten-free, it's so healthy you won't believe it tastes so good. Wild nettle tart with red onion jam and quinoa bowls with fresh veggies and sauces are must-tries.

Why go: Atone for your gastronomic excess with what Be Love refers to as "pure nourishment." It is so healthy, infused with west coast goodness and locally grown produce, that you will radiate wellness, or at the very least, self-righteousness, all over your yoga mat.

Number

What is it: The term "Japanese tapas" refers to izakaya-style restaurants that serve bizarre dishes such as the "avocado" (a whole avocado that has been tempura-fried) and ridiculous sushi rolls such as the "Victorian secret" and the "yoga flame roll." Don't be fooled by the names—the quality of the food is incredible.

Why go: Because it's difficult to get a reservation or a table, you should go if you have the chance to do so. It is well worth it to be able to say that you tried the Tamago spam musubi (Hawaiians would understand) or the maguro eruption, which is marinated tuna that you sizzle yourself on a hot stone. Both of these dishes are delicious.

10 Acres

What is it:

A sizable complex that is home to a high-end dining establishment known as The Kitchen, as well as The Commons, which serves delicious cocktails and oysters, and The Bistro, which is open for breakfast and lunch. If they aren't harvested from their nearby organic farm, the ingredients are either caught by local anglers or raised by local farmers.

Why go: To consume delicious, freshly prepared food. The best of the season's offerings, from berries to spot prawns, are showcased on tasting menus that change with the seasons. A truly virtuous meal would not be complete without locally brewed beers, coffee made in a French press, and homemade gelato.

Ferris Oyster Bar

What is it:  The opportunity to enjoy three distinct restaurants within one establishment: a seafood eatery housed in a heritage building that provides fine dining; a casual oyster bar with a perfect summer patio; and a tapas and wine bar; if you are unable to find a table at one of the restaurants, there is a good chance that one of the other restaurants can make room for you.

Why go: The upstairs dining room is known for its candlelit dinners featuring fresh oysters served with champagne. If the rumours about this popular local shellfish having aphrodisiac properties are true, then you are in for one hell of a romantic evening.

Zambri’s

What is it: Peter and Jo Zambri, who are siblings, opened this local hotspot in 1999, and ever since then, the local culinary scene has considered it to be a mainstay. The restaurant is inspired by Italian cuisine. The pasta dish that steals the show, with its freshly made noodles served with traditional sauce combinations like peas and gorgonzola, while the main courses include pork and chicken that was raised locally.

Why go: It’s almost always possible to get a seat at the bar, although the stylish big room does fill up fast, especially on weekends. In addition to the great food, make sure to try the house gin and tonic—every single ingredient used in the cocktail is made from scratch!

Glo

What is it: At this waterfront hangout, you can enjoy both happy hour and golden hour at the same time. Even during the day, this establishment has the atmosphere of a lively nightclub thanks to its ample seating both inside and outside.

Why go: An energising view of both scenic and working harbours can be enjoyed during happy hour on the waterfront patio, which is perfectly positioned to take advantage of the warmth of the setting sun. The party continues well into the night thanks to the cosy furniture and patio heaters that are provided.

Café Brio

What is it: A restaurant with an Italian theme and the atmosphere of a quaint country inn in the Tuscan countryside where you can enjoy your meal. Imagine paintwork with deep hues of blue, yellow, and red, as well as decorative wooden furniture, ambient fairy lights, and the like.

Why go: The compact menu, which has been carefully crafted, changes from one season to the next as new kinds of fruits and vegetables become available in the local area. They also change the farmed and fished goods, which means that the à la carte selection is always current and from the immediate area. If you just can't make up your mind, go for the smaller portions, or if your appetite is out of control, order something that serves the whole family. But what's the best part? The sommeliers at Café Brio are able to guide you through the nearly 300 different wines that are available to you and provide recommendations.

J&J Wonton Noodle House

What is it: A stress-free evening out that is ideal for making last-minute dinner plans and features outstanding Chinese cuisine, among other things. Because J&J does not offer delivery services and does not accept table reservations, there is always a chance that you will be able to get a seat there, even if you have to wait a few minutes for it.

Why go: This restaurant has a family-friendly atmosphere and is located on the east side of Chinatown. It serves traditional dishes such as spicy Sichuan-style chicken and ginger fried tofu. The price tag is appropriately reflective of the sparseness of the interior design. In any case, who cares about upscale wallpaper and white linen tablecloths when the food is this delicious and there is a window into the kitchen where you can watch it being prepared?

Brasserie L’Ecole

What is it: This restaurant in the downtown area takes French cuisine and transforms it into something that is distinctively west coast by following a seasonal approach—the menu is small and is based primarily on the availability of local ingredients. The restaurant takes its name from the old school building in which it is housed.

Why go: The ambience is elegant yet relaxed, which makes you feel right at home. They do not accept reservations, so it is best to arrive early or to take a stroll through the neighbouring Chinatown while you wait to be called for a table.

Sally Bun

What is it: This restaurant has been a favourite destination for lunch for locals for more than 25 years. It got its name from a blue neon sign that says "Sally," which can still be seen in the vicinity of the restaurant's first location on Douglas Street. A Chinese steam bun is elevated to an entirely new level to create a Sally bun, which consists of dough with a hint of sweetness that is stuffed with fillings such as chicken with curry, mushrooms, bacon, cream cheese, and artichoke. These mouthwatering lunches can easily be taken on the go and devoured quickly.

Why go: Sally buns are the ideal treat to bring on an outing or consume on an aeroplane. After 4 o'clock, all prices will be reduced to half off. Make it a point to indulge in at least one of the enormous cinnamon buns.

Green Cuisine

What is it: This Victoria institution, which can be found in the city's historic Market Square, is known for serving vegetarian and vegan food that is prepared from scratch on the premises. Rice and salad are always available, but the daily specials will keep you coming back for more. This will give you a good reason to keep coming back.

Why go: Because you are paying based on weight, you have the freedom to be as lavish or economical as you would like. However, you should save room for dessert, such as the lemon cheesecake or the gelato that is made in-house. In-house produced tempeh and tofu can also be purchased in take-out containers. You can also order a revitalising kombucha that comes with an organic soda shot if you're the type of person who likes to ride the waves of the latest health-food trend trains.

Restaurant at Point No Point Resort

What is it: A posh yet rustic hotel on the west coast, with a dining room that, despite its size, exudes elegance. Lunch is served on a first-come, first-served basis, with options such as yam and black bean croquettes or seafood pasta. In contrast, dinner features a limited selection of main courses, such as salmon, roast chicken, and steak, and a handful of appetisers that have been carefully considered.

Why go: After spending the day hiking along the west coast's beaches, this is the perfect place to unwind and relax after making the journey from the city (reserve in advance). The majority of the tables have a view of the water, and the wait staff will provide you with binoculars so that you can determine whether or not the object in the distance is a seal or a shipwreck.

O.My

In 2019, the popular garden-to-plate restaurant O.My in Beaconsfield relocated to larger and more suitable pastures, which are conveniently located right next door to the restaurant's previous location. The restaurant's stylish dining room, which can accommodate a total of 25 guests, has recently been joined by an intimate wine bar known as Ned's Lounge. This new addition is a more relaxed area for enjoying snacks and cocktails and can accommodate an additional 20 guests.

O.My was established in 2013 by Chayse and Blayne Bertoncello, who are brothers. Since then, the restaurant has garnered a number of accolades for its forward-thinking approach to cuisine and commitment to environmental responsibility. While Chayse is in charge of the front of the house and works as a sommelier, Blayne, the head chef, is in charge of the kitchen and the restaurant's two-acre farm that is located close to Cardinia.

Ned's Lounge, accessible through the lobby, is more relaxed. A communal bench and lantern-lit seats flank the front window. A menu of inventive bar bites, such as dill pickle gherkins fried in sourdough culture, is updated daily. Below are some menu examples.

On a wine list that is primarily focused on selections from producers located in the state of Victoria, bottles from Gippsland and the Yarra Valley are presented alongside some outstanding international labels. To complement your high snack, you can choose from a selection of cocktails inspired by farm-fresh produce as well as Victorian brews.