Amid rolling hills and sun-drenched valleys, vineyard dining in Australia is a feast for all senses. Rows of vines stretch toward the horizon, their leaves whispering in the breeze, as guests savour dishes that echo the land’s bounty.
Each plate is a reflection of the terroir, paired with wines born mere metres from the table. Golden sunsets bathe the landscape in a warm glow, while the air carries the perfume of crushed grapes and ripe fruit.
Here, dining becomes an intimate dance between nature and craftsmanship, where every sip and bite tells the story of Australia’s rich winemaking heritage.
Come with us to five Chef Hat-awarded vineyard restaurants where memorable meals are uncorked…
Set within the sun-lit sweep of Caves Road in Wilyabrup, Cullen Wines’ Biodynamic Wine Room is a living poem to place. Warm timber, cool stone and broad glass frame views of vines tumbling into native bush; the air is rich with salt, loam and a ghost-grape breath.
Attentive hosts pour wines tasting of sea-worn limestone, citrus peel and herbal lift, matched to plates like line-caught fish with garden herbs or lamb rump, pumpkin, onions, artichoke and lamb sauce. Each sip and bite carries the quiet patience of biodynamics. Sunlight pools softly upon tables; oak and fermenting lees linger like whispered histories - an immersive coastal terroir cradle.
Perched above the vine-laced hills of Murrah, Mimosa Wines Restaurant near Bermagui offers breathtaking views stretching over the vines and mountains. Set within a contemporary space of warm timbers and expansive glass, the restaurant celebrates the region’s bounty with refined, seasonal dishes crafted to complement estate-grown wines.
Expect plates that showcase the South Coast’s pristine produce – perhaps fresh-caught seafood paired with coastal herbs, or tender local lamb accompanied by vibrant garden vegetables. Each element is thoughtfully prepared to reflect the rhythm of the seasons, creating a dining experience that is both elegant and deeply connected to the surrounding landscape.
Nestled in the cool-climate heart of the Adelaide Hills, Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard in Lenswood offers a serene escape among rolling hills, lush vines and breathtaking valley views. This boutique vineyard blends a passion for winemaking with a commitment to showcasing the region’s unique terroir, producing elegant wines of depth and character.
In the contemporary cellar door and restaurant, guests can savour seasonal dishes such as cured salmon with ajo blanco and sea herbs to start, followed by kangaroo loin, roasted beetroot and smoked almonds, thoughtfully paired with estate-grown vintages. Every detail reflects the beauty of the Adelaide Hills, making Mt Lofty Ranges Vineyard a must-visit for fine wine and regional flavours.
Set amid lush vineyards and rolling hills in Relbia, Josef Chromy Restaurant offers a dining experience that captures the essence of Tasmania’s cool-climate bounty. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame sweeping views of the lake and estate vines, creating a serene backdrop for dishes that champion local produce.
The menu is driven by the seasons, showcasing vibrant flavours from nearby farms, fishermen and foragers. Expect beautifully plated creations such as braised lamb shoulder, with lentils, mustar and turmeric butter and fennel. Paired with the estate’s award-winning wines, each plate reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, delivering a taste of Tasmania that is as elegant as it is memorable.
Pike & Joyce in Lenswood offers a warm, inviting dining experience set amid the lush landscapes of the Adelaide Hills. This charming restaurant blends rustic charm with contemporary elegance, crafting dishes that celebrate local, seasonal produce with vibrant flavours and artful presentation.
The menu is a thoughtful journey through fresh, locally sourced ingredients, highlighting the region’s bounty with every plate – think dishes like . Pike & Joyce’s atmosphere is relaxed yet refined, perfect for intimate gatherings or special occasions. Its commitment to quality and passion for honest, flavour-driven cuisine make it a standout destination for food lovers seeking a true taste of the Hills.
