Essential Eats: Autumn Edition
As autumn colours the Great Ocean Road region, local eateries serve up hearty meals perfect for the season. Here’s your guide to the best autumn flavours.
Brae
Why: Why: Set among native gardens and rolling farmland, Brae is a true autumn retreat. Chef Dan Hunter’s ever-changing menu is a love letter to the season, showcasing the best local produce in creative and unforgettable ways.
Otway Estate – Brewery, Distillery, and Cidery
Why: Hidden in the Otways, Otway Estate is the perfect place to unwind with a handcrafted cider or beer. The beer garden is extra inviting in autumn sun, with crisp air, golden trees, and hearty pizzas or share plates to match.
Merrijig Inn
Why: With its cosy interiors and open fireplace, Victoria’s oldest inn is a picture perfect autumn dining spot. The menu is built around the best local produce.
Why: There’s nothing like a rich, fragrant flavours to warm you up on a cool autumn evening. At Raas Leela, traditional Indian flavours meet fresh, local ingredients for a dining experience that’s as vibrant as the season.
Why: At Samesyn 2.0, sustainability and seasonality take centre stage. Their ever-evolving menu celebrates the best of autumn’s harvest, with dishes that are both innovative and delicious.
The Perch at Lavers Hill
Why: Surrounded by trees and lush ferns, The Perch feels like a hidden sanctuary. Their menu is a true farm-to-table experience, crafted with ingredients grown and foraged right in the Otways.
Santara Restaurant
Why: Santara brings bold, fresh flavours to the coast, blending fusion with local ingredients. Its bright atmosphere and seasonal dishes make it a must-visit this autumn.
Why: With stunning ocean views and a rich history, the Grand Pacific Hotel is an iconic spot to soak in the changing season. Their menu highlights fresh, local produce with dishes that feel like a warm hug.
