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The best Lorne restaurants to try on your next Great Ocean Road adventure

Credit: Visit Victoria

Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
You’ll be spoilt for choice with Lorne’s collection of top-notch restaurants, including long-time favourites and fresh reopenings.

Considered the most cosmopolitan town along the Great Ocean Road, it’s no surprise that Lorne’s dining scene punches well above its weight. Fresh, seasonal and local produce reign supreme here, best paired with Aussie drops and refreshing cocktails. Seafood, naturally, is popular throughout most menus with the town’s rich history of commercial fishing, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than against the stunning backdrop of the coastline.

So let the sea air stir your appetite, and make your way through our curated list of Lorne’s best restaurants.

The shortlist

Family-friendly spot: In The Skies Restaurant & Bar
Budget-friendly: Tacos ‘N’ Tequilas
Best views: Almyra Restaurant and Bar

Grand Pacific Hotel

The Grand Pacific Hotel, Lorne
The much-loved local Lorne pub retains its Gothic-style façade and historical charm. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

The Grand Pacific Hotel has been perched at the end of Mountjoy Parade, close to the Lorne Pier, since 1879. Built to serve the tourism, timber and fishing industries, it has been recently renovated by operators Maryann and Matt Humphries yet retains its Gothic-style façade and historical charm. Whether you’re here for the history, the fresh pub fare, or the stunning views of Louttit Bay – perhaps all three – this is the kind of establishment that’s a destination in itself.

If you’re hungry, their chicken parmigiana is right up there with the best of them, or you can sample one of the Italian-inspired dishes, such as the pappardelle with slow-braised lamb shoulder and tomato ragu. Thirsty? The extensive drinks list covers local and international wines, craft beers, and classic cocktails and mocktails. They even have live music on the outdoor terrace in summer – follow their socials to stay up to date.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, Italian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Lively and friendly
Location: 268 Mountjoy Parade

In The Skies Restaurant & Bar

Italian cuisine at In The Skies Restaurant & Bar
The menu features Italian classics. (Credit: In The Skies Restaurant & Bar)

Part of the Lorne Bowls Club, In The Skies is an under-the-radar local gem serving up a classy sharing menu by chef Simon Holloway. The venue has been run by the local Mclldowie and Holloway families since 2024, who wanted to continue its reputation as a friendly and accessible restaurant and bar for the community. We suggest pairing a meal with barefoot bowls and making an afternoon of it. The chargrilled Southern Rangers sirloin is a winner, while vegetarians will love the orecchiette pasta with zucchini, white wine, cream and a fresh herb pangrattato.

Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Average price: $$-$$$
Atmosphere: Welcoming, family-friendly
Location: Lorne Bowls Club, Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

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IPSOS Restaurant & Bar

Greek cuisine at IPSOS Restaurant & Bar, Lorne
Seasonal specialties are a menu standout at IPSOS. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

This family-run restaurant has held one hat status from 2019 through to 2026. One look at the meals coming out and it’s easy to see why; the food is oriented around fresh, local ingredients, and is simple yet refined (think authentic Greek meets modern Australian).

You’re by the coast, so this is the time for fried kalamari, pickled octopus and chargrilled King prawns; although meat lovers won’t want to miss the slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Can’t decide? Let the chef choose for you with the $85 Chef’s selection menu. It gets busy, so book ahead. Note that outdoor seating is at ground level, but there are steps up to the entrance.

Cuisine: Greek
Average price: $$-$$$
Atmosphere: Buzzy
Location: 48 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

Tacos ‘N’ Tequilas

What’s better than fresh, zesty Mexican by the beach? Tacos ‘N’ Tequilas brings a bright splash of colour to Lorne’s main strip, from the pink and blue outdoor tables to the bold Mexican wall art. The menu is a celebration of modern Mexican cuisine, and it all goes down a treat with the margaritas, sangria jugs and tequilas that fill the drinks list. Start with the chilli con carne loaded fries, and don’t miss the fried fish tacos with papaya slaw, jalapeño garlic aioli and ricotta cheese.

Cuisine: Mexican
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Fun and laidback
Location: 46A Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

Pholklore

Pholklore restaurant in Lorne
Pholklore brings its fresh Vietnamese-fusion down the Surf Coast. (Credit: Amy Evans)

You can’t miss the blue umbrellas of Pholklore right next to the Lorne Theatre. After success in Torquay and Geelong, co-owner Dom Friend opened the third Pholklore in Lorne, bringing its fresh Vietnamese-fusion further down the Surf Coast.

Grazers will be drawn to the popcorn cauliflower, spring rolls (rolled fresh to order) and Sydney Rock oysters with Pandan-infused coconut milk, fingerlime and toasted sweet rice. If it’s a chilly coastal evening, opt for a soul-warming pho laksa; you’ll be lapping up that flavourful broth. Note that only the outdoor section is wheelchair accessible.

Cuisine: Vietnamese fusion
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Cheerful
Location: 82 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

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Salonika Social Pizzeria

a variety of pizzas at Salonika Social Pizzeria
Grab a slice of Salonika’s signature sourdough pizzas. (Credit: Supplied)

This highly rated pizza restaurant brings a touch of Greek influence to its seasonal entrees and hand-stretched sourdough pizzas. Think fried local kalamari with housemade tztaziki and the aptly-named Greka pizza, topped with tomato, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, capsicum, feta, capers and oregano.

The earthy-toned space is warm and cosy, with booth seating that’s great for groups. Swing by during their daily happy hour from 3.30-5.30pm for $14 spritzes, cheap wine and beer, and discounted pizzas Monday to Friday. Every Saturday night, live music turns the vibe up a notch – book to secure a table.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$-$$$
Atmosphere: Warm and vibrant
Location: 122 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

Raas Leela

crispy jalapeno at Raas Leela
Tuck into the handmade crispy jalapeño. (Credit: Raas Leela)

The mission of owners Aditi and Rachit Kapoor was to bring authentic Indian cuisine – often with a contemporary or creative twist – to Lorne with Raas Leela. The menu takes diners on a journey with street foods –such as mixed vegetable and cheese croquettes with brioche toast and turmeric tartare – and well-known classics like butter chicken and paneer curry. They also boast the best fried chicken in town, served with masala mayonnaise; we’ll let you be the judge.

If you’re free before dinner, the accessible restaurant houses the stylish Karma Bar, open for happy hour 3-6pm every day with a curated drinks menu.

Cuisine: Indian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Sleek and modern
Location: 116 Mountjoy Parade, Lorne

Almyra Restaurant and Bar

Almyra Restaurant and Bar dining interior
The light-filled dining space is just metres from Lorne Beach. (Credit: Almyra Restaurant and Bar)

You can’t get more beachfront than the family-owned Almyra. Its unmatched location, metres from the sand with front-row ocean views, is complemented by fresh Mediterranean cuisine that celebrates local produce and the art of chargrilled and woodfire cooking. The wood-fired saganaki is a standout, as are the pizzas – we suggest the prawn and chorizo. The dining room is a beautiful space filled with natural light, but you can’t beat drinks and seafood on the deck at happy hour. It’s no surprise that this is a popular wedding venue for the area; it’s also wheelchair accessible.

Cuisine: Mediterranean
Average price: $$-$$$
Atmosphere: Refined yet relaxed
Location: 81 Cypress Ave, Lorne

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Jade Raykovski
Jade Raykovski is a freelance travel writer from Melbourne, Australia whose wanderlust began from immersing herself in the fantasy worlds of her favourite books as a kid. She started off her career as a graphic designer, before making the switch to copywriter, and now – in what you could say is the role she was always destined for – travel writer. Along with Australian Traveller, her bylines include National Geographic, BBC Travel, Escape and NZ Herald. And while she loves writing about home, she'll never pass up the chance to sip a spritz in Italy.
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Goat yoga to gastronomy: The ultimate guide to Wimmera Mallee, Vic

    Gemma Kaczerepa Gemma Kaczerepa
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    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