By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
If a mid-year escape isn’t on the itinerary, then these Aussie venues - where the decor, music and flavours are designed to transport you straight to somewhere sunny - will deliver the next best thing. Even if it's single-digit cold outside!
Nestled in the Hunter Valley, Iron Gate Kitchen is a terracotta-drenched Mediterranean dream. The venue’s Spanish-inspired estate is dressed with archways, sun-drenched courtyards and vineyard views that make you forget you’re still in NSW.
Inside, the warm palette of earthy tones continues the theme of European leisure. On the menu, tapas-style dishes take centre stage. Think salt cod croquettes, sizzling garlic prawns and Gildas to start. The wood-fired flatbreads are also standouts - topped with creamy burrata, spicy nduja, or golden kipfler potatoes.
Bigger plates from the charcoal oven include lamb shoulder with salsa verde, while the tableside cheese cart and decadent burnt Basque cheesecake bring the drama.
With its crisp white interiors, nautical accents and million-dollar harbour views, Watsons Bay Hotel is the kind of place that feels like it’s lifted straight from a Long Island postcard. From the moment you arrive, it’s all about East Coast elegance - striped umbrellas fluttering in the sea breeze, bleached timber furniture that screams barefoot luxury and that soft golden glow that hits just right at sunset.
You’ll find locals and visitors alike lounging with chilled rosé in hand, soaking up the relaxed glamour. While the backdrop is stunning, the food gives the view a run for its money. Expect heaped seafood platters, perfectly crisp calamari, zingy fish tacos and fries best enjoyed with fingers and sea salt in your hair.
Perched just minutes from Bronte Beach, Table Manners is a slice of seaside Europe with white tablecloths, green marble accents and breezy linen draped from the ceiling. It’s intimate, art-filled and effortlessly stylish.
The seafood-centric menu leans luxe-coastal with crispy spaghetti al’Assassina, Hervey Bay scallops in nduja butter and a Moreton Bay bug sandwich. The cocktails - like a lemony Sgroppino - add to the Spritz-sipping-on-the-coastline fantasy.
Tucked away in Surry Hills, Olympus Dining is a glowing Mediterranean oasis where bougainvillea blooms overhead and the fire of the wood oven sets the tone. Designed like a chic Greek courtyard, the venue blends raw textures with bold splashes of colour.
The menu is made for feasting - from pillowy housemade pita to grilled lamb shoulder and market-fresh seafood served with smoky, herby flair. The vibe is intimate yet grand - like the perfect Greek Island escape.
Hotel Nacional’s five-level venue is a vibrant celebration of Mexican joy - complete with rooftop views, tropical plants and warm textures that ooze vacation energy. Each level tells its own story, but the rooftop is the star - with breezy beige hues, textural design and a festive atmosphere.
The 100% gluten-free menu spotlights modern Mexican cuisine. Expect vibrant tacos, zesty ceviche, punchy cocktails and share plates designed for grazing under the sun (or stars).
Marmont channels that old-school Hollywood glam – only it’s nestled on Melbourne’s Yarra River. The decor is refined but relaxed: riverfront views, sleek interiors and a turntable spinning vinyl in the background.
It’s Californian cool meets decadence, especially during the new ‘Hollywood Brunch’ on Sundays. Think fried chicken and waffles with Yarra Valley caviar, breakfast tacos and scallop ceviche tostadas - all best paired with bottomless Mimosas or a chilled Prosecco under the Winter sun.
With olive groves, an on-site orchard and sprawling gardens, The Wild Flower Bar and Dining at Bells at Killcare feels like a remote Mediterranean estate. Inside, it’s elegant and earthy with plush textures and dramatic florals – perfect for a long lunch.
The food draws from sun-drenched cuisines – including Moroccan, as well as Italian and French - with much of the produce plucked directly from the 500-square-metre garden. From crayfish off Macmasters Beach to seasonal vegetables and creamy polenta, this is hyper-local dining that feels internationally inspired.
With polished marble, leather booths and the warm glow of golden light, Armorica Grande Brasserie is French grandeur at its finest. A nod to traditional Parisian brasseries, this luxe spot is all about indulgence.
The menu delivers with escargot, Camembert crêpes and crème brûlée with a perfectly torched top. Pair it with a French wine and a side of unapologetic romance. No Eurostar required.
