Sometimes, a meal is more than just food - it’s a journey. From the rolling vineyards of the Mornington Peninsula to character-filled country pubs and coastal gems with serious flair, these restaurants double as destinations. They’re places you plan entire day trips or weekends around. Whether it’s the scenery, the architecture or the atmosphere, each of these dining spots is well worth the detour.
Here are five destination restaurants that promise an experience as memorable as the food.
Montalto – Red Hill South, Vic
In the heart of wine country, Montalto offers more than a seat at the table - it
delivers an immersive experience. Nestled along Shoreham Road, this
award-winning estate pairs fine food with panoramic vineyard views. Inside the
sleek dining room, a warm palette of natural textures and floor-to-ceiling
glass creates an elegant yet welcoming space that lets nature do the talking.
It’s the kind of setting that elevates any occasion, whether it’s a long lunch
or a celebratory dinner.
The kitchen celebrates seasonal, estate-grown produce,
expertly kissed by a wood-fire grill. Start with the rich, silken chicken liver
parfait served with brioche and a zing of candied cumquat. Then move into
something deeper, like wood-fired duck breast matched with chicory and a touch
of quince. Sides such as maple-glazed carrots and crispy kipfler potatoes round
out the plate, while dessert shines in the form of a fig leaf panna
cotta - finished with fresh figs, golden honey and crisp kataifi.
Plan your visit and book in for a vineyard feast that lingers long after the
last bite. Make sure to review your meal.
Cobblestone Lane – Bathurst, NSW
Tucked into Bathurst’s historic George Street, Cobblestone Lane occupies a
heritage-listed space that once housed the Webb & Co department store,
dating back to 1863. Inside, rustic charm meets contemporary elegance. Exposed
brick walls, polished timber floors and an open kitchen bring warmth and
character, while the gentle hum of conversation fills the softly lit dining
room. It’s a setting designed for everything from intimate dinners to relaxed
celebrations.
The menu brings together European and Asian influences with
refined results. A standout entrée of paprika-spiced prawns arrives nestled in
sautéed butternut squash with a flourish of capers and pickled red onion. Mains
like beef tenderloin are layered with thoughtful accompaniments - mash,
mushrooms, broccolini and heirloom carrots all tied together with a glossy jus.
Cap it all off with the rich sticky date pudding, complemented by
butterscotch sauce, chocolate ganache and a scoop of ice cream.
Make your reservation and step into Bathurst’s most historic fine dining
destination. Show your appreciation by leaving a review.
The Willunga Hotel – Willunga, SA
Dating back to colonial times, The Willunga Hotel blends heritage charm with elevated pub fare. Just off High Street in the heart of wine country, this storied establishment features original stonework, polished timber interiors and a crackling fireplace inside. Outside, a spacious beer garden with gazebos and shaded seating makes it a favourite for families and laid-back lunches under the sun.
The menu puts a contemporary twist on classic comfort food.
For starters, chilli and ginger prawns arrive bathed in a creamy sauce over
coconut rice, brightened with fresh herbs. The real hero? The pan-seared
kangaroo fillet and caramelised onion pie - served with roast pumpkin, sautéed
mushrooms and sweet potato mash, then brought to life with a tangy tomato
chutney and pink peppercorn glaze. It’s a dish that nods to the region’s
produce and culinary identity.
Secure your spot at this historic gem - perfect for a long lunch or hearty
dinner. Mark your visit with a review.
Ginja Ninja Café & Bar – Canungra, Qld
Tucked away in the relaxed township of Canungra, Ginja Ninja Café & Bar brings urban cool to the countryside. With graffiti-inspired murals, pops of neon and plenty of lush greenery, the vibe is energetic and eclectic - part café, part bar and entirely unpretentious. Whether you're grabbing a beer with friends or grazing through a relaxed dinner, this is the kind of venue that invites you to stay a little longer.
The food is fresh, punchy and wide-ranging. Tapas-style
starters include crispy karaage chicken with Japanese mayo, while salmon
sashimi is served clean and simple with lemon, wasabi and pickled ginger. For
something more substantial, the katsu chicken curry delivers a comforting hit
of umami, or try the teriyaki beef bowl - marinated to perfection and layered
with rice and fresh salad. Cap things off with a gooey chocolate brownie,
whipped cream and a drizzle of raspberry coulis.
Craving bold flavours and a laid-back vibe? Book your table at Ginja Ninja, then review your dining experience.
Goomalling Tavern – Goomalling, WA
A cornerstone of the Wheatbelt community for more than a century, Goomalling Tavern
is more than a local pub - it’s a living piece of history. Located on Railway
Terrace, the tavern exudes old-world charm while embracing a modern approach to
hospitality. Whether you’re a regular, a road-tripper or a visitor from out of
town, there’s always a warm welcome, a hearty meal and a well-poured drink
waiting.
The menu is grounded in comfort, built around locally
sourced ingredients and familiar favourites with thoughtful touches. Start with
a vibrant bruschetta of tomato and feta, or sticky pork belly bites packed with
rich flavour. Mains range from creamy chicken fettuccine to generous servings
of spaghetti and meatballs. For pub purists, a classic Scotch fillet with
garlic mash and seasonal veg hits the mark, while bangers and mash with smoky
chipotle-onion gravy delivers rustic satisfaction.
Take the scenic drive and book in for a meal that feels like home, let others know by leaving a review.
From coastal vineyard elegance to graffiti-clad cafés and historic hotels, these restaurants are proof that the journey is just as satisfying as the destination. If you're ready to turn your next meal into a getaway, these venues are the ones worth going out of your way for.
