A great road trip isn’t just about the scenery - it’s also about the food. Whether you're craving beachside brunches, sophisticated degustations or hearty regional dishes, these five standout restaurants make the perfect pit stops for any travelling gourmand. Pack your appetite and get ready to discover fresh local produce, innovative cooking and unforgettable flavours.
Rick's at Bargara – Bargara, Qld
A breezy, beachside favourite in the heart of Bargara, Rick’s at Bargara is where locals and travellers alike gather for great food with a side of ocean views. Located at the end of Bauer Street along the Esplanade, this laid-back spot transforms throughout the day - from a casual café serving up DiBella coffee and fresh breakfast plates to a contemporary restaurant and bar with live music on Friday and Saturday nights. Sit outside and soak up the salty breeze, or retreat inside for a relaxed but vibrant dining experience.
Breakfast here is a highlight - think smashed avocado with poached eggs, roasted tomatoes and smoked salmon on ciabatta, or hearty zucchini and corn fritters topped with crispy bacon, spinach and eggs. In the evenings, Rick’s shifts gears with a seasonal menu that brings creative flair to Modern Australian cuisine. Pair a glass of wine with a seafood dish while local musicians set the perfect mood as the sun dips below the horizon.
The Galley Kitchen Anchorage – Port Stephens, NSW
For those exploring the pristine coastline of Port Stephens, The Galley Kitchen at Anchorage is a must-visit. Perched along Corlette Point Road, this stunning waterfront venue offers breathtaking 180-degree views of the bay, providing the perfect backdrop for an elegant yet relaxed dining experience. Whether you’re sipping a crisp white wine by the water or indulging in a long lunch inside the chic pavilion, the focus here is on fresh, seasonal ingredients presented with modern flair.
Expect refined yet approachable dishes, starting with tonkatsu pork belly served with pineapple salsa and chilli caramel or seared scallops complemented by roast corn purée, guanciale and harissa. Mains continue to impress with options like char-grilled lamb loin paired with chermoula, butternut and radish, while the dessert menu tempts with creations such as a rich boozy chocolate tart. For the ultimate indulgence, try the confit duck leg with smoked duck breast, braised red cabbage and candied orange sauce - a dish that perfectly balances decadence and depth.
For those who appreciate thoughtful, rustic European cuisine, Peasant in Ballarat is a hidden gem. Located on Lydiard Street North, this intimate restaurant embraces a ‘food from the earth’ philosophy, delivering a monthly degustation menu that showcases peasant-style cooking with bold flavours and refined techniques. On Thursdays, Peasant introduces its à la carte offering, BOWL, where diners can enjoy popular dishes from the ever-evolving degustation lineup.
Each dish tells a story, starting with delicately balanced entrées like goats’ cheese pannacotta with crostini, rocket and herb salad and onion jam. Mains highlight slow-cooked classics such as coq au vin, served with roast garlic mash, mushrooms and smoked cherry tomatoes. If you have room for dessert, the vanilla and honey bavarois with honeycomb, white chocolate sauce and a honey tuile is a must-try - or opt for a carefully curated cheese selection with quince jam and sourdough for a truly European finish.
Located in the heart of Victoria’s gourmet region, Ava Milawa delivers a refined yet welcoming dining experience that celebrates local produce and bold Modern Australian flavours. This stylish restaurant on Snow Road blends casual fine dining with an inventive seasonal menu, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or a relaxed night out with friends. Step inside the charming brick-fronted façade to discover an intimate space where expertly crafted cocktails and contemporary dishes take centre stage.
Start your meal with fried squid, native lime and a fragrant curry sauce, then move on to standout mains such as prawn and scallop tortellini swimming in a rich laksa broth, accompanied by samphire, roe and red shiso. Carnivores will love the tender lamb shoulder served with minted cream, olives, peas and garlic chives, while those seeking indulgence can end on a high note with smoked chocolate, macadamia and miso caramel. For a truly unique dish, don’t miss the pork belly with apple, fennel, Savoy cabbage and a silky Milawa miso custard.
Graze Restaurant – Stanley, Tas
Tasmania’s North-west is a paradise for food lovers and Graze Restaurant at Stanley Golf Club is a prime example of why. Overlooking the rugged coastline, this family-run restaurant brings together local produce, warm hospitality and an inviting atmosphere that makes it perfect for a post-golf meal or a leisurely dinner. With a strong emphasis on regional ingredients, the menu showcases everything from premium Cape Grim steak to freshly caught seafood.
Kick off with half-shell grilled scallops drizzled with garlic and herb butter, or go for the housemade crayfish spring rolls with sweet chilli sauce. For mains, the Scotch fillet is a crowd-pleaser, served with seasonal vegetables and a choice of sauces, including a creamy garlic option that perfectly complements the rich Tasmanian beef. Another highlight is the tender chicken roulade stuffed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach, accompanied by garlic sauce, chips and salad.
From sun-drenched coastal eateries to refined regional dining, this foodie road trip delivers an unforgettable taste of Australia’s diverse culinary landscape. Whether you're a brunch enthusiast, a fine-dining devotee or simply someone who loves discovering great food on the road, these five destinations should be on your must-visit list. So fuel up, take in the scenery and enjoy the flavours of the journey.
