Whether you’re after a long, luxurious lunch, a romantic dinner, or just the perfect glass of wine to complement a well-crafted meal, the right venue can make all the difference. Across the country, restaurants and wine bars are embracing local produce, innovative techniques and an undeniable passion for pairing the perfect drop with an unforgettable dish.
From the rolling vineyards of Clare Valley to the chic suburbs of Sydney, here are five must-visit destinations for your next indulgent wine and dine experience.
Annie’s Provedore – Barwon Heads, Vic
A staple in the heart of Barwon Heads, Annie’s Provedore is more than just a café - it’s a celebration of gourmet food, fine wine and a true love of produce. Tucked away on Hitchcock Avenue, this charming establishment doubles as a boutique grocer, offering an inviting space where rustic interiors of recycled timber and polished concrete set the scene for leisurely dining. Whether you’re browsing the curated shelves for take-home treats or sinking into the relaxed ambience with a glass of local vino, Annie’s is a place to linger and indulge.
From early morning bites to satisfying lunches, the menu delivers something for every craving. Kickstart your day with a vibrant plate of smashed avo on sourdough, elevated with goats' cheese, poached eggs and almond dukkah. If you’re here for lunch, expect refined comfort food like the 12-hour beef shin lasagne - a slow-cooked masterpiece layered with rich sugo, creamy béchamel and finished with a peppery rocket salad.
The UPPside European Restaurant and Wine Bar – Penwortham, SA
In the heart of Clare Valley’s wine country, The UPPside European Restaurant and Wine Bar brings a taste of Continental elegance to Penwortham. Perched on Horrocks Highway, this charming venue blends European tradition with Modern Australian hospitality, offering diners a choice between a sunlit verandah with vibrant seating or a cosy indoor space featuring a curved bar ready to pour a glass of something special. With a menu that spans Poland to France and Italy, it’s a true feast for the senses.
Expect handcrafted European classics executed to perfection, like the signature Polish pierogi - delicate dumplings stuffed with creamy potato and cheese, bathed in an indulgent onion and butter sauce. If you’re after something rich and decadent, the duck à l’orange is a must-try, featuring perfectly crisped duck in a luscious citrus glaze. For those who can’t resist pizza, The UPPside delivers with Italian-style creations, from pork and fennel sausage with red onion jam to classic salami and olives, best enjoyed with a bold Clare Valley Shiraz.
Mason Wines Restaurant – Mount Tamborine, Qld
Nestled in the lush Gold Coast Hinterland, Mason Wines Restaurant is a hidden gem for those who appreciate estate-grown wines and refined cuisine. Located on Hartley Road in Mount Tamborine, this boutique winery offers panoramic vineyard views, an inviting rustic cellar door and a tranquil setting that makes it the perfect spot to escape the city hustle. Whether you’re enjoying a long lunch or a wine-tasting experience, Mason Wines delivers a culinary adventure that perfectly complements its elegant drops.
The menu champions bold flavours and quality produce, with dishes designed to pair seamlessly with the estate’s wines. A standout is the confit duck, served with a delicate quince and rosemary glaze that adds the perfect balance of sweet and savoury. Paired with crisp roasted potatoes and a peppery wild rocket salad, it’s a dish that speaks to the beauty of slow cooking and thoughtful pairing - best enjoyed with a glass of the vineyard’s signature Chardonnay.
L'Auberge du Bout du Monde – Balmain, NSW
Step into a slice of the French countryside without leaving Sydney at L'Auberge du Bout du Monde. Tucked away on Darling Street in Balmain, this intimate bistrot is all about embracing ‘l’art de vivre à la Française’ - the art of slow living and good company. Think candlelit tables, rustic wooden accents and a menu filled with classic French dishes that have been passed down through generations. It’s the kind of place where time slows down and every bite is designed to be savoured.
If there’s one dish that truly defines the experience, it’s the Le Confit de Canard. This signature duck leg confit is cooked low and slow until irresistibly tender, then served with a rich wine jus reduction and silky mashed potatoes. For those looking to start their meal in true French fashion, the baked camembert infused with rosemary and wine is an indulgence worth sharing - ideally with a glass of Bordeaux in hand.
Neeri Nuff Wine Bar & Kitchen – Neerim, Vic
A love letter to Gippsland’s incredible produce, Neeri Nuff Wine Bar & Kitchen is a must-visit for food and wine enthusiasts. Situated on Main Neerim Road, this stylish yet inviting venue features dark teal walls, marble-topped tables and a warm, ambient glow from overhead pendent lighting. Whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or simply unwinding over a well-crafted dish, Neeri Nuff offers an experience deeply rooted in the local landscape.
The menu is a thoughtful showcase of Gippsland’s finest ingredients, with dishes that balance innovation and comfort. Start with a slice of housemade White Rabbit Dark Ale 20-year sourdough, best paired with Black Treacle Cultured Butter for a rich, malty depth of flavour. For the main event, the local Gippsland beef steals the show, served alongside fermented garden lettuce, dill and a velvety date purée. Finish on a high note with the garden berry soufflé, a light and airy delight accompanied by ice cream and candied nuts.
Australia’s wine and dine scene continues to evolve, offering food lovers an ever-expanding selection of venues where great wine meets exceptional food. Whether you’re after a European escape, a French-inspired feast, or a vineyard retreat, these five destinations promise a dining experience that’s as indulgent as it is unforgettable. Cheers to good food, great wine and even better company.
