There’s a certain art to the long dinner—a slow, considered meal that invites conversation, contemplation and a touch of indulgence. It’s a ritual that demands more than just good food. It calls for ambiance, attentive service and a sense of occasion. From vineyard restaurants in wine country to chic rooftop escapes and modern takes on traditional Indian banquets, these are the venues that understand how to transform dinner into an experience.
Whether you’re sipping local Pinot in Red Hill or savouring duck with heritage grains in Wodonga, these restaurants invite you to stay a little longer, order another bottle and soak up every delicious moment.
The Dining Room at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill – Red Hill, VIC
Set within the elegant grounds of the Lancemore Lindenderry estate, The Dining Room offers a dining experience where time slows to the pace of the vines outside. With sweeping views of curated gardens through floor-to-ceiling windows and interiors that blend soft luxury with country charm, this is the kind of place designed for lingering. Perfect for fireside dinners or sunlit lunches, the setting complements the thoughtful rhythm of a long meal.
The menu is driven by local produce, treated with restrained
sophistication. One standout is the Sher Wagyu rostbiff, paired with a bold
smear of black garlic and softened by sweet beetroot. It’s served alongside
pomme purée so smooth it borders on buttery velvet, and a vibrant salad of
torello leaves kissed with citrus vinaigrette. It’s food that matches the pace
of the setting—measured, layered and meant to be savoured.
Secure your table and take your time—this one’s built for slow indulgence.
Occupying the old Wodonga Railway Station, Miss Amelie seamlessly fuses historic elegance with modern European charm. Arched brickwork and intimate nooks lend a romantic nostalgia, while bursts of greenery and refined table settings bring contemporary warmth. It’s a space where families gather, couples linger and every meal feels like a special occasion.
The braised lamb is a standout—rich, slow-cooked and falling
apart at the touch. It’s artfully balanced with parsnip purée, nutty freekeh
and pops of radish, macadamia and apple that cut through the richness. Every
bite tells a story of texture and time, making it the kind of dish you won’t
want to rush.
Make a reservation and let dinner stretch into evening.
Newmarket Room – Warwick Farm, NSW
With roots deep in equine history, the Newmarket Room pays tribute to Warwick Farm’s legacy with a refined modern dining space that overlooks manicured gardens and the riverside stables. Inside, equestrian touches add subtle flair to a space that is stylish without being sterile. It’s a place where you start with a cocktail and forget to look at the time.
Among the highlights, the chilli and garlic jumbo prawns
deliver heat and flavour in generous measure, while the herb-crusted lamb rack
arrives expertly pink, wrapped in a green crust that sings of garden herbs. Add
to that a menu of inventive desserts and carefully curated wines, and you have
a meal designed to unfold slowly, course by course.
Book your spot and settle in for a truly unhurried evening.
Storehouse Perth Subiaco – Subiaco, WA
Perched above the bustle of Subiaco on the ninth floor of the Vibe Hotel, Storehouse delivers rooftop dining with a refreshingly grounded approach. Its design leans modern—marble benches, stylish lighting and a slick open kitchen—but the mood remains relaxed. It’s a place to unwind, glass in hand, surrounded by city views and good company.
Their shared-style Chef’s Table is the embodiment of long
dining. Designed for groups who appreciate the theatre of shared dishes, it
includes a thoughtfully composed three-course journey that may feature the
likes of Wagyu tartare with Parmesan curd or Atlantic salmon served atop a bed
of freekeh, tahini and beetroot. It’s convivial, hands-on dining that
encourages you to eat slowly and enjoy the ride.
Gather your crew and reserve a rooftop seat—you’ll want to stay a while.
Antera Grand Feast – Harris Park, NSW
True to its name, Antera Grand Feast is a celebration of Indian cuisine on a scale that suits the boldness of its flavours. With vibrant colours, traditional accents and a menu that fuses regional authenticity with modern twists, this Harris Park gem is anything but ordinary. It’s a space where the plates keep coming and every one invites you to slow down and savour.
For those ready to commit to a culinary journey, the masala
vada and chicken curry are must-haves. The vada is crisp and aromatic, while
the curry balances spice with richness, made even more comforting with sides of
lemon rice, curd and house-made chutney. It’s a soulful feast that’s less about
rushing through courses and more about honouring each bite.
Call ahead and prepare for a dinner worth celebrating.
Some meals are made to be quick. Others are an invitation to pause. These venues champion the latter—where the table is your stage, and the night unfolds at its own delicious pace. So next time you crave a dinner that goes beyond the plate, you know where to go.
