Best Lorne Restaurants To Visit On Your Next Beach Break

From wood-fired pizza with knockout ocean views to a cosy, family-run, hatted Greek eatery, there are plenty of superb Lorne restaurants to choose from on your next Great Ocean Road trip.

Whether you’re in the mood for some fresh oysters in the sunshine, a kid-friendly bistro lunch or a boozy Italian feast with friends after dark, there’s plenty of eateries to choose from when visiting one of the Great Ocean Road’s most popular holiday towns. If you’re looking for the best Lorne restaurants to add to your trip list, read on…

1. IPSOS

This local institution run by Great Ocean Road restaurant royalty Pam and Kosta Talimanidis (and now their son Dominic too) is a consistent favourite with visitors and locals alike.

food and wine on the table at IPSOS restaurant, Lorne — Wine and dine at this hatted eatery.

A modern take on a traditional Greek taverna, this hatted eatery’s menu is varied daily to accommodate seasonal specialties but expect plenty of Mediterranean culinary heroes like smoked eggplant, grilled octopus and grilled kefalograviera (cheese) with spiced figs and pistachio.

people dining inside IPSOS restaurant, Lorne — Raise a glass with your mates at IPSOS.

Offering warm hospitality and a menu full of winners, Ipsos is one of those places you’ll want to return to again and again.

three plates of food on the table at IPSOS restaurant, Lorne — The menu is varied daily to accommodate seasonal specialties.

Address: 48 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

2. Pizza Pizza

This popular pizzeria in a white, weatherboard cottage has both outdoor and indoor seating (complete with log fire) making it a great dinner spot to visit all year round. There are more than 15 pizzas to choose from here spanning from the crowd-pleasing capricciosa to a zingy, peppery prawn pizza laden with mozzarella, prawns, garlic, chilli and roquette. Add a few glasses of vino with your mates and you’ve got yourself a pizza party.

dinner by the fireside at Pizza Pizza, Lorne — Cosy up by the fire at Pizza Pizza.

Address: 2 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

3. The Clam

A fun, casual spot for tunes, food and booze, The Clam is a welcome addition to Lorne’s social scene. At this retro seaside tavern you can cure your hangover with a Bloody Mary and a plate of rock oysters or start working on tomorrow’s hangover with a few happy hour cocktails.

a spread of food on the table at The Clam, Lorne — Cure your hangover with a Bloody Mary and a plate of rock oysters.

Live music is frequently a part of the package at this seasonal spot, so check to see who is playing or DJing before you arrive. Either way, you’ll be happy as a clam here.

a hand picking finger foods from a platter at The Clam, Lorne — The Clam is a casual spot for tunes, food and booze.

Address: 82 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

4. The Lorne Hotel Bistro & Beer Garden

The longstanding Lorne Hotel has been a local landmark for 145 years and looks set to continue its run for many more years to come.

an aerial view of The Lorne Hotel Bistro & Beer Garden — Nab a spot at the outdoor tables.

Like any good regional pub, there are specials throughout the week including midweek lunch deals, a curry night, steak night and a nightly happy hour offering drinks specials between 4–6pm.

the exterior of The Lorne Hotel Bistro & Beer Garden — The Lorne Hotel Bistro & Beer Garden has been a local landmark for 145 years.

On the weekends (especially during summer) the bistro and beer garden heaves with holidaymakers, so be sure to book ahead or get there early to nab a spot – outdoor tables with ocean views are prime real estate in these parts.

a woman walking inside The Lorne Hotel Bistro & Beer Garden — Inside, you’ll find a classy restaurant with lush garden views.

Address: 176 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

(02) 9114 7398

5. Almyra

With a tagline like ‘where the waves meet the wood fire,’ Almyra’s location is a bit of a dead giveaway. Sitting just metres from the breakers at Lorne Beach, this upscale eatery’s dining room is where to go for a special lunch or celebratory night out.

the waterfront Almyra restaurant next to Lorne Beach — Almyra is just metres from Lorne Beach.

With Mediterranean-inspired dishes like wood-baked snapper, twice-cooked octopus and ouzo-cured kingfish on the menu, seafood lovers are well taken care of. Want a table with waterfront views?

a platter of food at Almyra, Lorne — Head to Almyra for casual eats.

Book early to nab a prized position. For casual eats, head to the deck to lunch on meze, burgers and souvlaki by day and woodfired pizza by night.

the dining interior of Almyra restaurant in Lorne — Nab a prized position with waterfront views.

Address: 81 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

6. The Peak

With impressive views high over Louttit Bay, this wedding venue and bistro located in the Lorne Country Club is open for limited service over the busy summer holidays, Easter break and other busy periods during the high season. A top spot for an ale and meal after a round of golf or tennis session, The Peak has all the classics covered like steaks, parmas and fish and chips and a kid’s menu for the little ones. A strong beer and wine list of local favourites seals the deal.

an aerial view of the Lorne Country Club near the sea — The Peak overlooks the ocean. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 2 Holliday Rd, Lorne

7. Mexican Republic

Craving tacos and margaritas? This summer hotspot is where to get your fill of Mexican classics like beef enchiladas, pulled pork tacos, black bean burritos and charred street corn topped with queso and lime. Wash it down with a Tecate lager or two and you’ve got the perfect way to cap off a day by the beach. Close your eyes and you could almost convince yourself you’re in Baja.

the exterior of Mexican Republic in Lorne — Get your fill of tacos and margaritas at the Mexican Republic.

Address: 1A Grove Rd, Lorne

8. Captain Hooked

Some would say that no beach trip is complete without at least one seafood feast. Captain Hooked has all your deep-fried seafood needs covered with calamari, fish burgers, seafood baskets and, of course, good, old fish and chips served with tartare sauce. Since swimming, surfing and hiking are thirsty work, order a glass of house white or crisp tap beer to wet your whistle too.

al fresco dining at Captain Hooked, Lorne — Enjoy your crisp tap beer in the al fresco dining area.

Address: 94 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

9. Raas Leela

A top choice for vegetarians and vegans, this Indian restaurant brings the flavours of the subcontinent to the Victorian coast. Open for eat-in and takeaway, the menu has plenty of plant-based dishes, as well as a good selection of regional favourites from across India, like Bengali tiger prawns cooked in coconut and a fragrant Kerala-style fish stew. When it comes to dessert be sure to try the Gajar ka halwa, a traditional North Indian sweet pudding that is India’s answer to carrot cake.

Address: 116 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

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The Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges boast some of Victoria’s most stunning natural scenery, making them a prime destination for outdoor experiences.

There’s something very special about the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges . A mix of rugged bush, mist-laden rainforest, gardens bursting with vivid blooms and a network of rivers and waterfalls, the landscapes here are layered and diverse. Late summer is a particularly good time to visit, when the days are long and the region’s outdoor offerings are ripe for sun-soaked adventures.

The best part? Despite being only an easy one-hour drive from Melbourne, the area feels a world away from the hustle. You’ll be greeted by a slower pace with fewer travellers and more room to move – allowing you to truly switch off and take it all in.

From rail trails to rainforest walks, this is where you’ll find nature at its most rewarding.

1. Warburton

Biking around Warburton is one best natural experiences in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges. — Hit the trails at Warburton Mountain Bike Destination. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Perched at the top of the Yarra River, surrounded by pristine national park, the town of Warburton is a haven for nature lovers. It’s known for its towering redwoods, found in the Californian Redwood Forest just 15 minutes out of town. You’ll be in utter awe of these giant trees, some of which reach heights of up to 55 metres.

The Warburton Rail Trail is another way to experience the town’s natural beauty. This flat, 40-kilometre route goes all the way to Lilydale and is ideal for a stroll or cycle past native bushland, wineries, farmland and parts of the Yarra.

If you want to up the pace a little, head to the Warburton Mountain Bike Destination , which encompasses 160 kilometres of purpose-built tracks amid wild bush terrain. For something a little more laid-back, the Rainforest Gallery is a standout spot for a wander. The gallery features statuesque Mountain Ash and Myrtle Beech trees, moss-covered logs and tree ferns, and a 40-metre elevated walkway that brings you right into the centre of the forest canopy.

2. Yarra Glen

Yarra Glen is a beloved food and drink destination, but it offers far more than excellent produce and top-notch wines.

A highlight is Alowyn Gardens , which stretches over seven acres. Inside, you’ll find nine different gardens with vivid floral and seasonal displays, plus a nursery featuring exotic plant species. The Wisteria Arbour is a crowd favourite, a curved walkway connecting the different gardens with a display of cascading lilac blooms.

Intersecting with the Warburton Rail Trail, the first stage of the Yarra Valley Trail runs from the gateway town of Lilydale to Yering Station. A more manageable track of just 7.5 kilometres, it takes you through rolling farmland and pockets of native bush, with ample opportunities for wildlife-spotting.

If you’re travelling with kids, McKenzie Reserve is a non-negotiable stop. The reserve encompasses a skate park, plenty of open grass to stretch little legs, and a nature-inspired adventure playground to suit every age and every energy level.

3. Healesville

One of the best natural experiences in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges is seeing a Koala upclose. — Get up close and connect with koalas. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Healesville is the region’s best place to meet local wildlife. It’s home to Healesville Sanctuary , where you can get up close to kangaroos, koalas, emus, dingoes, reptiles and more. Beyond giving you front-row access to these gorgeous creatures, you’ll appreciate the scenic charm of the tracks and trails that meander through the wildlife park.

To see even more birdlife, head over to Badger Weir for a picnic. Situated among soaring Mountain Ash trees and tranquil waterways, the area supports several bird species, including crimson rosellas, Australian king parrots and the elusive lyrebird. Barbecue facilities are available, and several tracks leading to Badger Weir are pram-friendly.

Fernshaw Picnic Area, located in the Yarra Ranges National Park , is another idyllic setting for picnicking and short walks, also encircled by Mountain Ash trees. Compared to Badger Weir, though, Fernshaw provides a slightly more secluded experience, making it ideal for quieter outings.

4. Olinda

Cloudehill Gardens is a beautifully curated, year-round garden destination featuring nine terraced gardens filled with seasonal blooms and lush plant varieties. — Wander through terraces of ever-changing blooms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Sitting more than 600 metres above sea level, the Dandenong Ranges have an enchanted feel and are shrouded in lush rainforest filled with tree ferns, mossy trunks and lingering mist.

The town of Olinda is one of the finest places to experience this unique environment in all its verdant glory. At the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Gardens , rhododendrons reign and drape the gardens in a riot of colour every spring.

The nearby Cloudehill Gardens are well worth visiting any time of year. In each of the garden’s nine terraces, you’ll find an array of plant varieties that bloom and transform across the seasons, including weeping Japanese maples that have been growing here for nearly a century.

Besides being a haven for arbory enthusiasts, the nearby RJ Hamer Arboretum is a spectacular spot to enjoy panoramic views. Here, more than 150 tree species grow and overlook the neighbouring Yarra Valley and Great Dividing Range.

5. Emerald

A lady eating with the view of Emerald Lake Park. — Enjoy a lakeside picnic at Emerald Lake Park. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Set just behind the Dandenong Ranges , the foothills town of Emerald has a slightly more open feel, featuring rolling hills and open bushland. The town sits on the edge of the Dandenong Ranges National Park , with a patchwork of forested reserves and accessible bush trails on the Emerald side.

You can also take to the water at nearby Aura Vale Lake, which is popular for sailing, canoeing, fishing for eel and perch, and picnicking on the grassy banks.

The stand-out, though, is Emerald Lake Park, a sprawling green with multiple recreation zones. Across 52 hectares, there are walking tracks, playgrounds, paddleboats, a model railway, fishing sites and a family-friendly wading pool that comes to life every summer. The park also lies adjacent to the iconic Puffing Billy, making it a perfect stop if you’re travelling on the historic steam train.

Start planning your next adventure at visityarravalley.com.au

Try these Lorne restaurants on your next Great Ocean Road adventure