The Best Flinders Ranges Restaurants To Dine At

From cute diners championing native ingredients to classic country pubs and a pop-up bakery with a difference, here’s your guide to the best Flinders Ranges restaurants.

Gorgeous sunsets that stretch from horizon to horizon, impossibly cute rock wallabies silhouetted against the golden glow and a deep silence that settles over everything once the sun goes down… There are plenty of things to love about the outback, but those star-filled nights can lose their lustre if you forget to pack enough food.

Fortunately, the days of having to make do with lukewarm roadhouse pies are long gone. It doesn’t matter if you’re camping remotely or living it up in the region’s best accommodation; a new crop of eateries bringing fine dining to every corner of this majestic landscape means you’re never far from your next meal. Whether you’re looking for a paddock to plate feed on a working sheep station, a mixed grill with a difference or an iconic quandong pie, here are the best Flinders Ranges restaurants to help you get the most out of your outback adventure.

1. Flinders Food Co

a table-top view of hands holding out drinks at Flinders Food Co — Fuel up at Flinders Food Co.

Homemade barbed wire chandeliers set the scene at this welcoming Hawker diner that specialises in finding inventive new uses for locally sourced materials. Native ingredients find their way into most dishes on a modern Australian menu that would be at home in any capital city: cornbread with avocado and feta gets a dusting of native dukkah, while the sticky eggplant is doused with a delicious Korean BBQ sauce spiked with native pepperberry (you can also buy bottles to take home).

Add in taps pouring craft beers, coolers and cold press juices, plus cans of refreshing quandong or golden wattle soda, and you’ve got a winning formula.

2. Woolshed Restaurant

the dining area at Woolshed Restaurant, Flinders Ranges — Woolshed Restaurant offers spacious seating.

Dining options begin to thin out as you head further north, so the Woolshed Restaurant on Rawnsley Park Station is a godsend for anyone staying in or near Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park. Don’t be fooled by the rustic fit-out that goes heavy on the corrugated iron; the kitchen here turns out seriously sophisticated dishes (just skip the pizza).

The property is a working sheep station, so homegrown lamb finds its way into meatballs, stewed hash and pizzas, but there’s also a seasonal menu featuring fresh vegetarian options like lemon zucchini pasta with roasted cherry tomatoes if you’re in the mood for something lighter.

3. Prairie Hotel

the Prairie Hotel in Flinders Ranges — Prairie Hotel is a classic pub in town. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Harvey Keitel and Kate Winslet have stayed here, John Williamson wrote a song about the venue, and it’s even featured in Home & Away. Not bad for a pub in a town with a single-digit population. But it’s the Feral Mixed Grill at the Prairie Hotel that has made Parachilna’s pride and joy a fixture on outback itineraries for decades.

Portions are among the most generous of any Flinders Ranges restaurants, so you’ll need to bring a serious appetite to finish the platter laden with an emu rissole, camel sausage, grilled roo fillet and goat tomahawk. Or you can check out the menu of native proteins that includes everything from roo schnitzel and wild boar orecchiette to a leafy salad with chardonnay dressing.

After lunch, peruse the walls adorned with Aboriginal artworks from across South Australia, the Northern Territory and Western Australia, before heading to the stylish front bar pouring session ales, IPAs and hazies from the 500-litre microbrewery in the corner.

4. The Miners Crib Cafe

The former copper mining settlement of Blinman is South Australia’s most elevated town, but there’s nothing highfalutin about the local bakery . Their hunger-busting pies come in an impressive variety of flavours, including kangaroo curry, goat curry, roast lamb and roast pork, while their version of a Cornish pasty packs a little apple pie filling into the trademark thick crusts so you can finish your lunch with a little dessert. You’ll also find scones with quandong jam and cream as well as a range of takeaway soups, curries and stir-fries in case you don’t feel like cooking dinner.

5. North Blinman Hotel

a vehicle parked outside The North Blinman Hotel, Flinders Ranges — The North Blinman Hotel is a classic country watering hole in the Flinders Ranges. (Image: Ranch Glapers)

When this classic country watering hole opened in 1869, it aimed to keep customers satisfied with ice-cold beers and hearty pub meals. More than 150 years later, the “pub in the scrub" is still going strong on both fronts. The classic counter meals taste even better after a long day on the road, and it’s easy to spend an entire evening admiring the unusual decorations; the bar walls are almost entirely hidden by business cards and other mementoes left by satisfied customers.

6. Farina Bakery

a finger bun on white background at farina, Flinders Ranges — Swoon over sweet finger buns at Farina Bakery.

Head north from Leigh Creek, and after half an hour, you’ll hit the railway siding at Farina , which was home to 600 souls in its heyday. These days, the ghost town is mostly populated by tumbleweeds, but for eight magical weeks each winter, a group of enthusiastic volunteers helps to bring the town back to life.

The chief attraction is an underground bakery where mulga fenceposts are fed into a vintage scotch oven, turning out a range of rolls, cobs and loaves, including the infamous one-kilogram fruit loaf. A more modern bakery also produces pies, lamingtons and swoon-worthy cream cakes that are worth the trip alone. It’ll be open again in 2026 from 23 May to 19 July.

7. Over The Edge

If the day doesn’t truly start until you’ve had your caffeine fix, head to this surprisingly cosmopolitan Over the Edge cafe in the small mountain biking hub of Melrose. Racks of bikes and accessories share space with a bright red espresso machine pouring shots of single-origin Guatemalan coffee – order an affogato and you can also try the delicious (and palm oil-free) Golden North ice cream from nearby Laura. A cabinet filled with vegan cakes, slices and tarts is perfect for breakfast on the go, and even if you’re not hungry it’s worth grabbing one of the famous chocolate and raspberry brownies to enjoy later.

8. Quandong Cafe

Spend any time in the Flinders and you’re bound to encounter quandongs in one form or another. Also known as the native peach, this hardy tree thrives throughout the arid ranges, and the tart, vitamin C-rich fruit has long been a local favourite. The cute Quandong Cafe , set a street back from the grand country pubs in the former railroad hub of Quorn, lives up to its name with offerings like quandong milkshakes, waffles, cheesecakes, pies and fluffy scones with whipped cream and quandong jam alongside a range of brunch standards.

For more inspiration and itinerary tips, read our travel guide to the Flinders Ranges.

A world away from the hustle, bustle and chaos of the big smoke – yet with a distinct sense of familiarity – Victoria’s Wimmera Mallee region is an incomparable place.

Victoria’s Grampians are a visual feast, a seemingly endless vista of craggy cliffs, rolling valleys and untamed bushland. But they’re also much more than a scenic mountain landscape. Diverse and storied, each region within the range has its own rhythm. The Wimmera Mallee – a pocket in the state’s north-west, stretching from Horsham to near Mildura – is one of the most captivating.

Once known as Victoria’s agricultural heartland, the Wimmera Mallee has evolved in recent years into a dynamic, slightly offbeat hub. It buzzes with a creative hum and welcoming energy, and harbours an eclectic mix of long-time locals and tree-changers. Once you encounter its unmistakable charm, feel its warm country hospitality and taste its nationally celebrated vanilla slice, you may find yourself lingering longer than planned.

Eager to explore? These must-visit spots let you experience the inimitable spirit of this special part of the world.

Wimmera Mallee’s quirky attractions

The Dimboola Imaginarium, Wimmera Mallee victoria — Step into the whacky Dimboola Imaginarium. (Image: Denis Bin)

If you’re after something a little more unconventional, the Wimmera Mallee delivers in droves.

The Dimboola Imaginarium – located in a historic bank building in its namesake town – is a gift shop and boutique accommodation in one. Shop for unique and whimsical keepsakes, stay overnight in an elegant themed room, and lose yourself in one of the Imaginarium’s interactive experiences.

Also in Dimboola, just a short drive from the Imaginarium, is a menagerie of utter delight. Tiny Goats and Co. is home to a herd of miniature goats, with the farm offering group visits and special events like goat yoga and cuddle sessions.

Arcade aficionados should visit the Australian Pinball Museum in nearby Nhill. Here, you’ll find the biggest selection of playable pinball machines in the country, featuring modern models and classics dating all the way back to 1931.

Arts and culture in Wimmera Mallee

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed — Step into history at the Stick Shed. (Image: Visit Vic)

As a thoroughly creative community, it’s no wonder the Wimmera Mallee has a host of venues focused on its rich arts and culture scene.

Wander Trickbots Metal Art & Sculpture Garden in Nullawil, a winding trail filled with unique and quirky creations fashioned from metal odds, ends and scrap. A walk through the garden is inspiring enough, but consider buying a piece to take home and treasure.

The town of Nhill also has a significant Karen-Burmese refugee community, who make up 10 per cent of the local population. Discover the artistry of this vibrant culture at Paw Po , where you can purchase traditional hand-woven and textile products. Choose from a selection of beautifully crafted homewares, fashion and dolls.

Step into the Wimmera Mallee’s storied history at the Stick Shed , the only WWII emergency grain store still standing today. This National Heritage-listed structure takes you on a journey through the region’s agricultural past and is a dramatic sight with its towering and eerily striking timber poles.

Nature escapes around Wimmera Mallee

pink Lake Tyrrel, Wimmera Mallee, Victoria Australia — Take in the pink hues of Lake Tyrrell. (Image: Visit Vic)

Much like the majestic beauty of the wider Grampians, the Wimmera Mallee is a mélange of serene and spellbinding nature escapes.

Victoria’s pink lakes are famed nationwide, and two of them are found right here. See the flamingo-pink hues of Loch Iel, particularly vivid after a heavy downpour, or the vast and ancient Lake Tyrrell , which turns pink during wet and warm conditions.

The Snowdrift dunes in Wyperfeld National Park are ideal for adventurers. Set amid the area’s semi-arid landscape, the dunes are expansive mounds of sand deposited around 40,000 years ago. Hike or sandboard them and make sure to visit at sunset, when the sand glows golden.

And while some travellers chase the highest peaks, you can see the most modest in the Wimmera Mallee. Standing a mere 43 metres above the surrounding terrain, Mount Wycheproof is considered the smallest registered mountain in the world. Courtesy of its relatively gentle inclines, it’s a lovely spot for a walk and a picnic.

Culinary adventures in Wimmera Mallee

border inn in the Wimmera Mallee — Meet the locals at Border Inn.

As a region rich in agricultural bounty, it’s little surprise the Wimmera Mallee has such a robust and vibrant food scene. The community is fiercely proud of its local produce, showcasing the flavours and heritage of the area.

The Border Inn in the village of Apsley is a quaint country pub and meeting spot for the local community, featuring a classic country menu and warm hospitality.

The Horsham Golf Club is a popular spot for golf buffs with an adjoining bistro and bar. Try a modern twist on hearty favourites while taking in views of the green. For a taste of the area’s vintages, head to Norton Estate Wines – a boutique wine producer and cellar door open weekends.

A Wimmera Mallee jaunt wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the famed Sharp’s Bakery in Birchip. Here, you’ll find a velvety vanilla slice that’s been crowned as Australia’s best seven times.

Wimmera Mallee accommodation

Fulham Homestead in wimmera mallee — Escape to Fulham Homestead.

If you’re enjoying an extended trip, you’ll need somewhere to rest. After a day tackling Wyperfeld’s epic dunes, visit Pine Plains Lodge , also in the national park. Built from reclaimed timber planks and logs, and anchored by rugged stone fireplaces, the lodge is a rustic and cosy hideaway.

For a refined yet relaxing escape, head to Fulham Homestead – a gorgeously restored guesthouse on an idyllic working farm, complete with farm animals and scenic vistas. Built in the 1840s, it has all the elegance and charm of its heritage, plus contemporary comforts like a modern kitchen, wi-fi and air-conditioning.

The Hermitage Hotel is Victoria’s oldest inland pub and an equally delightful blend of old and new. The restored rooms are perfectly appointed and adorned with period furnishings and high-quality linens. The pub itself is a favoured food and wine spot among locals and travellers alike.

If camping is more your style, the Lake Lascelles Cabins and Camping (formerly Mallee Bush Retreat) is a sprawling oasis with powered and unpowered sites and snug cabins. The setting is stunning too, the pristine Lake Lascelles sitting right in its centre.

Annual events

Wimmera Mallee Nhill Aviation Museum — Time your visit to Nhill Aviation Museum for the annual air show.

You may not need an excuse to revisit the Wimmera Mallee, but these annual and bi-annual events will almost certainly have you returning again and again.

Each year, the Lake Chalegrark Country Music Marathon takes over the town for a spectacular line-up of musicians from around Australia. The event is easygoing, family-friendly, and set in scenic surrounds on the shores of Lake Charlegrark.

Every two years, the region holds colourful events like the Wimmera Steampunk Festival , a raucous celebration of 19th-century steampunk culture with a different theme each time; the Nhill Air Show , which features jaw-dropping aerial stunts, aircraft displays, music, activities and more; and the Nati Frinj , a festival of art, culture and performance showcasing the many talents of the Natimuk community.

From the quirky to the tasty, start planning at visitwimmeramallee.com.au

Skip the roadhouse pies at these Flinders Ranges restaurants