Breathe in the fresh sea air, sample innovative local cuisine and soak up the relaxed alfresco lifestyle of the Mornington Peninsula, just an hour’s drive from Melbourne.
Embracing wild ocean beaches from Portsea to Flinders and the kangaroo haven of Greens Bush, Mornington Peninsula National Park is a favourite of Melburnians looking to escape city hustle and bustle.
This region truly has it all when it comes to places to dine - find a seat overlooking a vineyard at an award-winning winery; along the coast get cosy at a café opposite to beach or stop by a local favourite bistro for a classic pub feed.
Mornington is also home to award-winning Chef-hatted dining destinations, here are three you can’t afford to miss:
The Dining Room (15) restaurant on Arthurs Seat Road in Red Hill does regional dining right. Nestled in Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill vineyard, this refurbished destination is the ideal spot to enjoy long, languid lunches or cosy dinners by the fire sipping a glass of estate wine.
Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the outside in as you gaze over manicured gardens and lawns from reeded glass and curved-back chairs, while pondering a menu showcasing gourmet local produce; perhaps delving into dry-aged Aylesbury duck breast, spiced bread, stuffing and chicory.
Take in panoramic views of rolling vineyards as you dine in style at Barmah Park Restaurant & Cellar Door (12) in Moorooduc. Located a short drive from Mornington on Moorooduc Highway, this destination restaurant boasts a beautiful, spacious dining room, casual enough for a midweek luncheon yet also intimate enough for a romantic dinner with your special someone.
Passionate Chefs have created a Modern Australian menu showcasing the abundance of world-class produce available in the region, with a focus on seasonality and flavourful offerings; think dishes such as Black Angus beef brisket, smoked potato, Estate Pinot Noir, heirloom beetroot, Dutch carrots and caraway.
A visit to Montalto (12) on Shoreham Road in Red Hill South is never complete without a memorable meal at the award-winning restaurant. Offering a warm and relaxing dining experience, Montalto has a contemporary vibe, with locally made chestnut tables, while floor-to-ceiling glass windows allow guests to drink in breathtaking vineyard views.
Sourcing seasonal local and estate-grown produce to be cooked on the wood fire grill - allowing the ingredients to sing - the Mod Oz menu presents starters like grilled albacore, fava bean and green olive pesto; followed by wood-smoked brisket, pumpkin and horseradish.
