Where to eat on the Bellarine Peninsula this summer

Not only is Jack Rabbit Vineyard one of the most stunning venues on the Bellarine with views across the bay to Geelong, Melbourne and the You Yangs, it’s also well-known as a local epicurean destination.

While the winery’s Jack Rabbit Restaurant is the highest tier – best for special dinners or anniversary occasions, make a beeline for its cafe House of Jack if you’re seeking a bit more of a casual vibe instead.

After a guided tour of winemaker Nyall Condon’s award-winning cool climate wines, pop into House of Jack for a satisfying feed. You can start with a shared platter and taste some of the best local fare, from Bellarine beef pastrami and Barwon Valley ham to a curated cheese selection and Portarlington mussels escabache.

Modern Australian dishes are familiar and family-friendly; expect tasty burgers on La Madre brioche, local seafood and chips, and freshly prepared salads. For afternoon tea, enjoy Meinl coffee, pots of loose leaf brew from the folks at Love Tea and plenty of cake.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Meat lovers charcuterie ($34)

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Fans of That 70s Show won’t get enough of the groovy vintage vibes at Geelong cocktail haunt There There.

As you step into a corridor of double and triple denim and record-lined walls, head straight for the comfy couches and start choosing your cocktails. Here, there’s plenty of interesting ones. Classics with a twist have been given a 70s facelift, with fun names like the Pink Floyd, Harvey Wallbanger and Space oddity.

Chilli lovers will love the kick in the Devil wears sombrero – a spicy mezcal infusion with agave, Grand Marnier, citrus and hot ginger beer.

You’ll feel the warmth of a hippy-themed house party, except with much better cocktails, music and swanky interior design to match. Lounge around for drinks amongst the lush vines or get up and have a boogie… anything goes around here, a haven for free spirits.

It’s also home to one of Geelong’s best beer gardens so hop enthusiasts won’t be left out.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Devil wears sombrero ($24)

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Don’t be fooled by this small country pub’s humble appearances. The family-run bistro at the Drysdale Hotel is a neighbourhood favourite for a hearty feed when you’re out and about exploring the Bellarine Pensinsula.

Grab a frosty pint and find pub classics, from juicy chicken parmas and steaks to golden-fried fresh seafood. Highlights include the seafood pappardelle with succulent Portarlington mussels and other local delights from the sea, and the grilled chicken burger with pineapple, bacon and onion relish.

You’ll spot fleeting Asian flavours on the menu, such as the duck spring rolls with miso dipping sauce and szechuan peppercorn calamari.

Want something a bit different for dessert? Try the coffee crème brûlée.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Grilled chicken burger ($23.90)

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Right in the heart of Barwon Heads, discover a small slice of Italy in the shape of Annie’s Provedore & Produce Store.

The multi-function space operates as a cafe, deli, food store (and pizza and wine bar on weekends), with plenty of delicious local oils, jams and cheeses to take home with you after a chat with the friendly staff.

For brekky, enjoy fresh Zeally Bay sourdough with whipped fig and orange butter or smashed avo with poached eggs and Tuscan salsa. There’s also house-baked beans with veggie remoulade, house-smoked salmon, plus your favourite lineup of big breakfast ingredients (Meredith goat’s cheese, we’re looking at you).

Lunchtimes see Annie’s customers opt for a tasty pie or frittata with a salad or ploughman’s board. Amidst the iconic visual display of hanging San Daniele Prosciutto, you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled onto a charming back-street enoteca.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Beef shin lasagne ($24)

Portarlington is known for its outstanding seafood (namely, its mussels), a fact Pier St leverages to its advantage.

The prestigious waterfront cafe prides itself on sourcing its produce and seafood as locally as possible, with a focus on the fresh and naturally vibrant flavours of the Bellarine Peninsula.

Discover a menu of contemporary Australian cuisine, shining a spotlight on decadent seafood platters, elevated brunch fare and top-notch restaurant dishes. From prawn linguini with spicy shellfish bisque, cherry tomatoes and saltbush, to King George whiting and mussels done three ways, this kitchen certainly isn’t your average suburban chippie.

The family-friendly (and dog-friendly) venue also offers gorgeous seaside vistas and a drinks list that celebrates local wine and beer.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Fresh local Apollo Bay crayfish – half ($80)

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