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 Restaurant
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.
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Why: This brewery and distillery is all about bold flavours and small-batch craft creations. Whether you’re stopping by for a brew or a bite, Noodledoof’s playful take on food makes it an autumn standout.

