hero media

The best restaurants in Warrnambool 

Credit: Visit Victoria

Jade Raykovski Jade Raykovski
Bring an appetite with you to Warrnambool and get ready to try some of the region’s stellar produce.

Celebrate your epic Victorian road trip and reaching the end of the Great Ocean Road with a meal at one of Warrnambool’s diverse restaurants. From authentic Thai, Filipino and Sri Lankan cuisine to approachable fine dining and native Australian influences, there are plenty of options for fussy eaters and foodies alike. Here are some of our favourites…

The shortlist

Hottest new opening: Lot 17
Great for special occasions: Myrtle by Dave
Best date spot: Lost Cat

Seaview Warrnambool

a rainbow as seen from the window at Seaview Warrnambool
Capture breathtaking coastal views from the large, ceiling-high windows. (Credit: Seaview Warrnambool)

Its name says it all; this beachfront restaurant provides spectacular views of Lady Bay and the Southern Ocean from its large, ceiling-high windows and the dog-friendly, ramp-accessible outdoor deck. The bright, light-filled dining space is the perfect setting for a relaxed lunch or dinner, and they also serve brekkie until 12pm for late risers.

Seafood is the star of the menu, although dishes like a Cape Grim Porterhouse and chicken parmigiana also make an appearance. You can’t miss their signature seafood chowder (creamy soup packed with fresh seafood, served in a locally made Jane Dough sourdough cobb loaf), and the chocolate lava cake is a doozy.

Cuisine: Seafood, Modern Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Chill, beachy
Location: 1/80 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool

Clovelly Restaurant & Bar

This cosy old-style bistro is part of the Best Western Olde Maritime motel. With its Chesterfield sofas, wooden joinery and exposed rafters, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The ambience is complemented by friendly service and a menu that balances classics such as steak and barramundi with bolder flavours, like their ‘curry by kal’ with jasmine rice, charred pita, fried shallots, red onion and chilli oil. Pair your meal with wine, one of the beers on tap, or choose from the over 40 local and international bottled beers and cider on offer.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Warm and cosy
Location: 116 Merri St, Warrnambool

Lost Cat

dinner at Lost Cat, Warrnambool
This sleek restaurant serves up a curated Modern Australian sharing menu. (Credit: Andrew Clark)

Ex-Rockpool chef Zac Nicholson and his partner Jasmine Leung opened Lost Cat in January 2025, taking over the former Hairy Goat site. The sleek yet casual 55-seat venue focuses on serving simple, seasonal food. Highlights from the curated sharing menu include a 48-hour fermented focaccia served with a flavour-packed onion dip, and a wood-grilled scotch fillet with umami butter and chips. This is our pick for date night.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Relaxed, vibey
Location: 69 Liebig St, Warrnambool

Proudfoots by the River

Proudfoots by the River, Warrnambool
Dine by the Hopkins River. (Credit: Visit Victoria)

Take in the picturesque setting as you step into this historic boathouse overlooking the Hopkins River, which dates back to 1885. If you can, get a seat by a window or sit out on the balcony (you’ll feel like you’re on the river itself).

Their modern menu focuses on using native Australian ingredients and fresh local produce; think seared scallops with a sage and saltbush burnt butter sauce, or for something a little more unusual, try the native-spiced chicken and crocodile tikka masala.

Cuisine: Modern Australian, native Australian influence
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Charming, tranquil
Location: 2 Simpson St, Warrnambool

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

AI Prompt

Sizzling Manila

Filipino dishes at Sizzling Manila, Warrnambool
Savour Filipino cuisine with a twist. (Credit: Sizzling Manila)

The first Filipino restaurant in Warrnambool has opened at the start of 2026, run by four friends, Mary Pagalilauan, Gladys Bosi, Leslyn Lian and Maria Morden. Promising a taste of home in every plate, the menu focuses on classic Filipino dishes such as a sizzling pork belly sisig (crispy chopped pork belly served with onion and topped with a cracked egg) and chicken inasal, a marinated grilled chicken dish. You can dine in or take away.

Cuisine: Filipino
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Casual
Location: 192 Timor St, Warrnambool

Lot 17

a decorated wall at Lot 17, Warrnambool
Gather at the stylish restaurant for a Mediterranean-inspired lunch. (Credit: Jumpin’ Jac Flash)

Local couple Nicole and Hugh Goldson opened Lot 17 at the end of 2025. The site has had a long history, which the new restaurant celebrates: originally known as Section 10, Allotment 17 in the Hopkins Ward, it was first purchased in Warrnambool’s earliest land sales by mayor Michael Fenton.

Over the years, it’s been everything from a saddlery to a general store, and is now a restaurant focusing on local produce and a shared experience. Come here with a partner, family or a group of friends: the menu is designed to be shared, and ranges from bar bites to larger plates. Try the grilled zucchini with basil and yoghurt, char grilled pork collar or gnocchi with pesto and eggplant, paired with a Victorian or South Australian wine.

Cuisine: Mediterranean inspired
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Communal, social
Location: 132 Timor St, Warrnambool

Bundy’s Bar & Bites

Bundy’s is known for its generous portions and wide-ranging menu, which features Sri Lankan dishes and stir fries alongside typical bistro fare like steaks, burgers and chicken parmigiana. The family-friendly, ramp-accessible restaurant also offers takeaway and serves wine, beer, cocktails, coffee and dessert until late – so if you find yourself craving a sticky date pudding after 9pm, this is the place to go.

Cuisine: Sri Lankan and Australian
Average price: $$-$$$
Atmosphere: Friendly, welcoming
Location: 67 Liebig St, Warrnambool

Thaimor Street Food

Thaimor Street Food, Warrnambool
Treat yourself to a diverse array of Thai dishes. (Credit: Thaimor Street Food)

If you’re craving flavourful, authentic Thai cuisine, head straight to Thaimor Street Food. The flavours are as bold as their colourful interiors, which are an eclectic mix of exposed brick, corrugated iron, and bright booth seating, with Thai movie posters, photographs and beverage brand logos lining the walls. Meat lovers need to try the Wagyu beef with their house special chilli basil sauce, and the steamed fish with ginger and soy sauce is also a highlight. Takeaway is available, and don’t worry if you can’t do spicy food, as they’ll cater to all palettes.

Cuisine: Thai
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Fun and vibrant
Location: 162 Timor St, Warrnambool

Weekly travel news, experiences
insider tips, offers, and more.

Salt Restaurant

Executive chef and owner Matthew McLeod has created a casual yet elevated restaurant experience with Salt. The classy yet relaxed space seats just 40, so make sure to book ahead. You can look forward to a creative European and Australian-inspired menu, where everything including the bread, pastas and ice creams are made in house, and local produce is celebrated.

Definitely kick start your appetite with the housemade bread with whipped butter and rosemary salt, before moving on to dishes like the handmade pappardelle with beef and pork ragu or the 12-hour braised and pressed lamb shoulder. Ask your waiter for a suggested wine pairing, and leave room for dessert. Note the entrance is wheelchair accessible.

Cuisine: European, Modern Australian
Average price: $$$
Atmosphere: Refined
Location: 73A Liebig St, Warrnambool

Myrtle by Dave

the entrance to Myrtle Bar & Kitchen, Warrnambool
Myrtle Bar & Kitchen is conveniently located in the CBD.

For a well-cooked steak and fabulous cocktails, look no further than Myrtle by Dave. The upscale restaurant is known for its charcoal grill cooking and carefully sourced produce; expect to see dishes like a Rangers Valley Wagyu brisket, chargrilled regional market fish and Western District dry-aged rib eye on the menu. Squeeze in oysters and a crème brulee on either side, and you have yourself a feast.

Cuisine: Modern Australian
Average price: $$$-$$$$
Atmosphere: Sophisticated
Location: 163 Timor St, Warrnambool

Rankey’s Zone Restaurant Cafe & Bar

Rankey's coconut roti, Warrnambool
Devour Sri Lankan roti. (Credit: Rankey’s Zone Restaurant Cafe & Bar)

Rankey’s Zone is highly rated for its fresh, genuine Sri Lankan cuisine. Try the “Kotthu", a Sri Lankan Street food made by tossing paratha roti pieces with vegetables, plus your choice of protein (egg, chicken, pork, beef or seafood). If it’s your first time trying Sri Lankan food, head here on a Saturday night for the all-you-can-eat rice and curry buffet; for only $25, you can try special rice varieties, vegetable, meat and seafood curries, street foods and condiments. One tip: come hungry.

Cuisine: Sri Lankan
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Warm and friendly
Location: 78 Liebig St, Warrnambool

Bojangles Pizza Restaurant

Bojangles Pizza Restaurant's interior
Indulge in Italian cuisine in the trattoria-style Bojangles Pizza Restaurant.

This long-standing restaurant delivers classic Italian cuisine with a twist in a trattoria-style setting. Pizza is the star of the show, naturally, but they also serve a range of pasta and mains. Their signature pizzas are the way to go; try the Portofino with tomato, cheese, buffalo mozzarella, pancetta ham, basil pesto and rocket. On warm nights, dine outside under the fairy lights, Italian style.

Cuisine: Italian
Average price: $$
Atmosphere: Refined rustic
Location: 61 Liebig St, Warrnambool

Want to see more stories from Australian Traveller in your Google search results?

  1. Click here to set Australian Traveller as a preferred source.
  2. Tick the box next to "Australian Traveller". That's it.
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.
View profile and articles
Deep Blue Hotel & Hot Springs from above
Warrnambool

The best accommodation in Warrnambool

While holiday parks abound in Warrnambool, there are also plenty of options for those seeking a little more comfort and style.

Read more
NRMA Warrnambool Riverside Holiday Park from above
Warrnambool

Our guide to the best Warrnambool caravan parks and camping spots

A trip to the beautiful regional city of Warrnambool doesn’t have to break the budget.

Read more
The Cally bar interior
Warrnambool

A guide to the best bars and pubs in Warrnambool

No Aussie road trip is complete without a trip the pub (or several).

Read more
Allee Espresso, Warrnambool
Warrnambool

The best Warrnambool cafes to try on your next visit

From sleek coffee bars to laidback kiosks, cafe culture is alive and well in Warrnambool.

Read more
hero media

Discovering Bendigo’s unique heritage through incredible foodie experiences

    Kate Bettes Kate Bettes
    Continue
    Tuck your napkin firmly in place and get ready to dive into Bendigo’s history.

    It’s an internationally recognised fact that Bendigo food experiences prove this region knows how to wine and dine. After all, its shiraz-laden landscape was named Australia’s first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy. But what visitors lured in by this shiny label might not know is how deeply its culinary scene sits within the gold-rush town’s colourful past.

    Whether you’re eating in a grand colonial bank or nibbling through a gold miner’s garden, grab a big plate. In Bendigo, every meal is served with a huge helping of heritage.

    Take a food tour

    foodie walking tour in bendigo at Ms Batterhams restaurant Bendigo foodie experiences
    Join a Foodie Walking Tour to local highlights like Ms Batterhams.

    Start in the capable hands of Bendigo Guided Tours. Named as the 2025 Victorian Best New Tourism Business, they run two 12-person options. A Taste of Bendigo – Foodie Walking Tour will see you tasting seasonal dishes and sipping wine, craft beer and cocktails made with regional spirits over two-and-a-half hours, with stops at Ms Batterhams, Wine Bank on View, The Dispensary and Bendigo Brewing.

    You can up the ante a notch or two with the Four Hats of Bendigo – a night of fine-dine hopping with the experts across Terrae, Le Foyer, Alium Dining and The Woodhouse.

    Book a table

    Terrae restaurant in bendigo victoria
    Dine at Terrae.

    Alternatively, see Bendigo’s stars under your own steam. There’s Terrae, where produce from the owners’ own farm kitchen garden and orchard is plated up inside what was once a bank, while cocktails are poured in the underground bar below. For something special, book a private table in old bank vault. Rather less wholesome? The bullet hole in the window – a throwback to Victoria’s wild gold rush era.

    Another former bank-turned-eatery, Alium Dining, goes full art nouveau inside a 1908 building overlooking the Alexandra Fountain in the heart of Bendigo. Here, Alium’s Asian-meets-European flavours run all the way from duck leg croquettes with mandarin marmalade to raw trevally with coconut and nước chấm, to pork milanese with anchovy and stout mustard.

    Beneath an old school hall at Mackenzie Quarters, Ms Batterhams serves southern European-inspired dishes inside a 19th-century basement bar and restaurant. Beyond its sourdough crumpets (smeared with taramasalata, paprika and parsley oil, if you must know) is the origin of the restaurant’s name: Winifred Batterham, the owners’ mother’s former kindergarten teacher. Honour her properly with a ‘Winifred’ cocktail.

    Alium Dining in bendigo victoria
    Alium Dining offers a unique setting inside a 1908 building.

    Carnivores, get ready to bang your sharpest knives on the table. Bendigo’s only dedicated steakhouse, The Woodhouse, specialises in Wagyu sourced from surrounding farms. They’ve got beef every which way – from tartare topped with Giaveri Oscietra caviar and wagyu toast to porterhouse dry-aged and grilled over redgum.

    Your next bank stop on the food circuit is Bunja Thai. Housed inside the former Colonial Bank, it’s all Victorian-era Australian grandeur, from the enormous arched ceilings to the detailing overhead. Thai Singha and local craft beer jostle for attention – but both are perfect quenchers when you’re sharing barramundi baked in banana leaf beneath all that old-world opulence.

    If your trip through Australia isn’t complete without a country pub stop, make it The Bridgewater Hotel on the Loddon River. Renovated since its 1942 beginnings, but the establishment still retains its Art Deco charm. It’s the kind of place where steak burgers come stacked with bacon, egg, cheese and dripping beetroot relish, and are best handled in the riverside beer garden.

    Pour a glass

    Heathcote Wine Hub bendigo food experiences
    Find over 180 local wines at Heathcote Wine Hub.

    Your plate’s been stacked. Now it’s the glass’s turn – ideally with the famously bold shiraz and cab sav grown here. Early settlers in Bendigo and Heathcote were onto something when they first planted vines in the area’s mineral-rich soil, and their legacy still pours strong across more than 60 cellar doors today. Start big at the Heathcote Wine Hub, where more than 180 wines from nearby vineyards sit beneath the rafters of a restored former wooden church, with 16 available to taste by the glass.

    Heathcote Winery might have become one of the area’s first commercial wineries in the seventies, but its story started way before its courtyard tastings. Back in 1854, it operated as a miners’ produce store during the gold-rush years. Other cellar doors aren’t immune to reinvention under the wine wave either. At Munari Wines in Heathcote, charcuterie boards are presented in their newly renovated cellar, originally the stables of the former sheep station.

    Discover local events

    the Heritage and Hidden Spaces Wine Walk in bendigo
    Time your trip for the Heritage and Hidden Spaces Wine Walk

    Time your trip right and watch the parks, gardens and buildings fill with food and drink. Fans of the malt: mark 29 August  2026 for Bendigo On The Hop, when craft breweries take over venues throughout the CBD. Brews make way for history at the Heritage and Hidden Spaces Wine Walk (17 October 2026), where bottles are opened inside some of the city’s most interesting buildings – including rarely opened spaces. In November, the Regional Gin Gala raises spirits in Mackenzie Quarters with a boozy celebration of its homegrown distilleries, including Noble Bootleggers, Envy Distilling and In Good Spirits. Explore wine, food and live music at Heathcote on Show (6 – 8 June 2026).

    Take it all in

    bendigo tram cafe Bendigo foodie experiences
    Tram meets tasty at Bendigo Tram Cafe.

    Takeaway means something different in Bendigo. At Australia’s oldest operating Tram Depot, the Tram Cafe sits aboard an out-of-service 1916 N-Class Tram that serves tea and scones. Once you’ve polished off the last crumb, you can even pop into the driver’s cab and try the controls yourself.

    Peppergreen Farm continues Bendigo’s long connection to Chinese market gardens, first established here by immigrants in the 1850s. Today, the not-for-profit farm invites visitors to pick up organic produce, alongside jars of honey harvested from its own hives.

    Indulge in retail therapy

    Bendigo Pottery
    Elevate your at-home dining experience after a trip to Bendigo Pottery.

    If there’s still room in your bag among the clanking jars and bottles, stop by Uniquely Bendigo inside the Old Post Office. Sharing space with the Bendigo Visitor Centre, it’s a one-stop shop for favourites like Bendigo Brittle, Bridgeward Grove and Tea Associates.

    If you’d rather leave your fingerprints on your Bendigo souvenir, there’s a place for that too. At Bendigo Pottery, visitors can try their hand at shaping clay while taking part in another tradition of evolving old spaces – creating works of art within Australia’s oldest working pottery.

    Start planning your Bendigo adventure at bendigotourism.com.