High end feasting and seasonal splendour

Here’s the secret: there’s an enchanted place where beauty and quality of produce reside, cellar doors creak and speak and breweries bubble. Take a ride from Port Phillip through the undulating hills of the Mornington Peninsula’s hinterland to Western Port and you’ll find a world where attention to detail and deliverance mean everything and then some. Joie de vivre is bottled and brought to you in the shape of exceptional dining experiences against the backdrop of artistic expression to create an extra-special place we call Eat.Drink delicious. 

This is a region where the world stands still as the trees bend and gather and the orchards bear the fruit of generations and new-found footings. Artisanal produce is grown in the rich soil and crafted, prepared and offered with artistic sensibilities to world-weary travellers who have finally found the place to rest in the best accommodation available. And the wine and cider flows. And the sustainable seasonal produce grows.

With a focus on brilliant high-end feasting from Point Leo to Shoreham, Main Ridge to Merricks and Red Hill to Arthurs Seat, journey along the winding road from eatery to winery to farm and indulge in the knowledge that great things come to those who are patient. This is grape-growing, cider-crafting and Chef Hat territory, where tasting menus matter and each course comes with its own tastebud expedition. Seasons dictate and the splendour of home-grown delights offered to you on a plate say welcome to the adventure.

Explore below.

Cellar & Pantry Eddies Organic Cider Jackalope, Mornington Peninsula Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill Main Ridge Cattle Main Ridge Dairy Mantons Creek Cellar Door Peninsula Beverage Co. Red Hill Pt. Leo Estate Quattro at The Epicurean Mantons Creek Red Gum BBQ Red Hill Truffles Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm T’Gallant Vineyard Ten Minutes by Tractor The Epicurean Red Hill

Cellar & Pantry

An abundance of colour and fresh fragrance hits your senses the moment you enter Cellar & Pantry, followed by some of the friendliest greetings on the Mornington Peninsula.

Since 2003, Cellar & Pantry has been the grocery shop, café, and community hub for the residents to gather and shop. Proudly showcasing more than 800 handpicked Mornington Peninsula products on site, Cellar & Pantry is so much more. “It’s a place that brings people together, a community from the surrounding area of Red Hill and beyond,” said owner Dee.  

Residents have their daily coffee to start up the day and some also finish their day enjoying a glass of wine on the deck. Customers can purchase a bottle from the cellar and enjoy it on the deck for a small corkage fee.

The husband and wife team of Joe and Dee both grew up in families where the creation and enjoyment of food was everything.  Added to that is their love for travel, especially throughout Europe, and their drive to replicate those experiences back home. “It’s about sharing our experiences with food with our customers,”  Dee said. Customers seek advice and recipes from the team, who gladly share their knowledge and passion for the produce.

As the name suggests, the offering extends to a range of products from more than 100 Peninsula wineries, breweries and distilleries, and some European favourites.  Joe’s background studying winemaking and working at Chrismont Winery in the King Valley, and his enthusiasm for providing the best variety and selection, results in customers often asking for his recommendations.

The Deck Café, also known as the Locals’ Deck, offers a relaxed atmosphere where delicious food is made from Peninsula produce and can be enjoyed with your favourite drop.

Cellar & Pantry is the place to treat your tastebuds to some of the Peninsula’s finest produce, and it’s open seven days a week. 

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-7pm; Sunday 9.30am-7pm

Cellar & Pantry     141 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill     P: 5989 2411  
www.cellarandpantry.com.au     FB: RedHillCellarAndPantry   Insta: cellarandpantry

Eddies Organic Cider

Eddies Organic Cider is crafted with 100 per cent certified organic produce that’s grown, harvested, pressed and fermented on the family farm. Eddies’ crisp, new-world cider varieties are gluten-free, vegan, and don't contain added sugar, colours, flavours or artificial preservatives.

Eddies’ cider is produced in the heart of Red Hill where a variety of organic apples and pears are grown on a large orchard and are perfect for creating multi-award-winning ciders and sparkling juices. This leafy oasis has been owned and operated by the same family over six generations. Left with an abundance of fruit they couldn’t bear going to waste, they took the excess and diversified into producing a unique cider range that tantalises your tastebuds with its perfect balance. They carefully select the fruit that goes into their range of beverages and are passionate about sustainability and zero food waste throughout the whole process, from growing and harvesting the fruit to producing the cider. 

Just one taste is enough to propel Eddies Organic Cider to No.1 in the cider stakes. Order online or visit the website for details of stockists, markets, festivals and events.

Eddies Organic Cider     eddiescider@gmail.com     www.eddiescider.com.au
FB: EddiesCider              Insta: eddies_organic_cider

Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill

Look beyond Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill’s well-established reputation for hosting weddings and functions and you will find exceptional experiences for the more casual visitor. Relaxed and welcoming, Lindenderry offers a range of options to enjoy Peninsula wine and produce, whether you are stopping for a chilled glass of wine, a luxurious meal or enjoying the overnight accommodation.

Lindenderry's Dining Room has recently changed to a more flexible à la carte menu, with each dish carefully crafted using the finest Peninsula and seasonal ingredients. Newly appointed executive chef Tony Brazendale, with his extensive experience in Michelin Star kitchens in the UK, promises an exciting addition to the local dining scene. Tony brings innovation and expertise to the table, using recognised ingredients to create a truly memorable dining experience. 

Begin with signature Ora King salmon or stuffed quail, and then move on to mains that include pan-fried john dory and roaring forties lamb loin. Vegetarians are no mere afterthought, with such exceptional dishes as the housemade smoked cheese ravioli.  Complementing the cuisine is a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring Lindenderry’s own award-winning wines, Peninsula favourites and international selections. Please note that items may change according to availability.

Another casual option is the cellar door, which comes to life every Saturday and Sunday. Stop by for a glass or two of award-winning wine and relax with the live music and friendly conversation.

Whatever option you choose, restaurant manager Julian Morgan, chef Tony and their teams guarantee a warm and inviting experience.

Opening hours: The Dining Room Thursday-Saturday 6-11pm; cellar door Saturday-Sunday 11am-4pm with food noon-3pm

Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill       142 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill    P: 5989 2933 
www.lancemore.com.au/lindenderry-red-hill   FB: lindenderryredhill   Insta: thediningroomredhill

Mantons Creek Cellar Door

Next to Quattro at The Epicurean Mantons Creek, discover the serene Mantons Creek Cellar Door, a hidden surprise on the Mornington Peninsula. Established in 1994, this family-owned vineyard embraces a sustainable, minimal-intervention approach, producing premium fruit with the utmost care. The vines have been dry-grown since 2009, resulting in wines that reflect the cool climate and maritime influences of the region.

Here, wine enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the delights of estate-grown wines. Among the highlights are the exquisite chardonnay, pinot meunier and méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines.  Winemaker Michael Kyberd's passion shines through in each bottle, encapsulating the philosophy of manufacturing pleasure. With a portfolio of small, quality-driven wineries on the Peninsula, he crafts wines that capture the essence of the land.

Experience the charming cellar door, where you can immerse yourself in tasting the estate-grown varieties, including new releases and cellared vintages. The cellar door is an intimate space, welcoming group bookings for up to 14 people. For larger groups, advance reservations are recommended. 

Whether you're a seasoned wine-lover or simply seeking a delightful wine-tasting experience, Mantons Creek Cellar Door promises an unforgettable journey through the world of cool-climate, maritime-style wines.

Opening hours: Friday-Sunday

Mantons Creek Cellar Door    240 Tucks Rd, Shoreham      P: 0492 216 552 
www.mantonscreekestate.com.au   FB: mantonscreekestate        Insta: mantonscreekestate

Quattro at Mantons Creek

Tucked discreetly just off scenic Shands Rd is Quattro at Mantons Creek, a well-kept secret waiting to be discovered. This recently renovated gem is more than just a restaurant; it's a complete experience that seamlessly combines gastronomy, vineyards and accommodation all in one enchanting location. 

Quattro Restaurant by The Epicurean Group offers a la carte dining and can also be exclusively booked for intimate wedding receptions, corporate events or birthdays with the option to use the accommodation on site. The venue has four king suites, each with breathtaking views across the vineyards and the serene hinterland beyond. It's a secluded and tranquil haven, perfect for those seeking an escape from the everyday hustle and bustle. 

The restaurant itself is a Mediterranean-inspired haven where refined cuisine takes centre stage. Handcrafted pastas and delectable sweets grace the menu, making every meal an exquisite dining experience. With attentive and knowledgeable staff to guide guests through their choices, highlights include succulent calamari, fresh oysters and tantalising tuna tartare. Round off your meal perfectly with homemade gelato or passionfruit panna cotta. A la carte and chef’s tasting menus are updated regularly and change according to seasonal availability. The range of estate-produced wines perfectly complements the cuisine. 

Quattro is an idyllic setting for gatherings of all kinds. Its spacious open deck provides unobstructed views, creating an enchanting backdrop for special moments. The charm of Quattro at Mantons Creek lies in its peaceful seclusion and fresh seasonal produce served with the utmost care, creating modern Australian cuisine with an Italian heart.

Opening hours: lunch Friday-Sunday; dinner Saturday.
Opening hours change seasonally and based on private event bookings

Quattro at The Epicurean Mantons Creek       240 Tucks Rd, Shoreham  P: 5989 6222   
www.mantonscreekestate.com.au   FB: epicureanmantonscreek    Insta: theepicurean_mantonscreek

Red Gum BBQ

Take a road trip to the southern US without leaving the state. Just head to the Mornington Peninsula and follow the smoky smells coming from the pit room at Red Gum BBQ in Red Hill.

Meat takes centre stage here, where pitmasters expertly smoke free-range and grass-fed meats using traditional southern-style techniques that span up to 12 hours.  Favourites among patrons include beef brisket, beef and pork ribs, and pulled pork, accompanied by an extensive list of classic southern sides such as mac n’ cheese, sweet cornbread, and slaw.  There are plenty of vegetarian options too.  But whatever you decide, always save room for some sweet, southern-style pie.

Owners Melissa and Martin have served up delicious memories to families and friends for almost 10 years.  “Each tray of our traditional southern-style barbecue brings people closer together, creating lasting connections and cherished moments,” Melissa said.

Behind the recycled timber bar, find a selection of Peninsula wines, Victorian craft beers on tap served traditionally in Ball Mason jars, Peninsula spirits and fabulous cocktails.

Dine in or order takeaway online, and don’t miss the chance to explore the authentic range of smoky sauces, rubs and merchandise for sale. For the barbecue pitmasters out there, sign up for a two-hour pitmaster masterclass and learn everything from selecting the right cuts of meats to prepping the meat, smoke and temperature control. Enjoy a barbecue feast and also receive some take-home merch.  It makes a great gift, as does the new home-delivered subscription box.

This rustic venue includes two versatile dining spaces, making it perfect for weddings, private dining occasions, corporate events, team-building activities, and catering whether on or off site.

Experience the warm embrace of traditional southern hospitality and genuine charm while revelling in the welcoming atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind venue. 

Opening hours: Wednesday-Sunday 11am-9pm. See website for seasonal changes to opening hours and details for takeaway, catering and functions.

Red Gum BBQ     87 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill    P: 5989 3156
www.redgumbbq.com.au      FB: redgumbbq      Insta: redgumbbq

Red Hill Truffles

An eating adventure combined with outdoor activity, a truffle hunt at Red Hill Truffles is perfect for explorers searching for an outing with a difference. Just an hour from Melbourne, here’s your opportunity to discover delicious truffles.

Hailed as the diamond of gastronomy, chefs, farmers and curious truffle-lovers alike remember their first truffle encounter, experiencing  the intoxicating earthy aroma of the fungus newly removed from the ground, savouring its mouthwatering umami flavour. 

Truffles are there for the harvesting at Red Hill Truffles, the challenge of finding them adding to their appeal. Gorgeous keen-nosed English springer spaniels are on hand to aid the challenge, guiding winter and summer hunts through the spectacular truffière, where participants will learn how truffles are cultivated. The venue’s hosts are excited for visitors to sample freshly harvested truffles uncovered in the hunt, to enjoy them served with wood-fired pizzas, cheeses and even delicious desserts. 

For those wanting to continue their exploration of the truffle taste at home, a range of products is available, including truffle butter, truffle and mushroom paste, truffle honey, truffle aioli, truffle mustard and truffle salt.

Widely held as exclusive, truffles are accessible to everyone at Red Hill Truffles, with experiences and products to excite all appetites. 

Book public and private hunts at www.redhilltruffles.com

Winter truffle hunts June to August; summer truffle hunts December to February

Red Hill Truffles   235 Arthurs Seat Rd, Red Hill    P: 0417 190 193
www.redhilltruffles.com      FB: Red Hill Truffles    Insta: redhilltruffles

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm

There's nothing better than picking a sun-kissed, ripe, juicy strawberry right off the plant and devouring it as the juice runs down your chin. In the leafy hinterland of Main Ridge in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, you'll find a field of beautiful ruby-red strawberries just waiting for you to lose yourself in as you pick your own bounty to take home.

In 1964, the Gallace family opened the gates of Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm to give locals and visitors the opportunity to experience the joy of picking fruit from the vine for themselves. The pick-your-own concept was a great success, and people young and old love to be at one with nature and experience the joy of farm-to-table.

In 2016, the Gallaces sold the farm, and just last year it came full circle and returned to the family with a new name and a new lease on life. With more than 20 years’ experience breeding new varieties, there isn't much they don't know about growing strawberries.

After exploring the fields, stopping at the farmgate and cafe is a must. Spoil your family and friends with some of the best scones on the Peninsula, as well as creamy, luscious housemade ice-cream, sundaes and milkshakes. Their strawberry temptation is a sensation: layers of strawberry ice-cream, fresh and marinated strawberries, whipped cream, wafers and strawberry sauce piled high in an old-school sundae glass. 

And it's hard to resist strawberries dipped in Belgian couverture chocolate!

Opening hours: November-April (u-pick season) daily 10am-5pm; May-October (off-season) Friday-Sunday 11am-4pm

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm      244 Shands Rd, Main Ridge     P. 5955 3500 
www.rockycreek.com.au              FB & Insta: rockycreekstrawberryfarm

Ten Minutes by Tractor

As deliciously multi-layered as the wines it produces, Main Ridge’s Ten Minutes by Tractor delivers experiences satisfying all tastes. The flagship restaurant, under the direction of head chef Hayden Ellis, proudly offers fine dining with an innovative set menu showcasing local produce, including ingredients sourced daily from the property’s own regenerative farm. 

The passion for fresh, unique offerings continues in the a la carte menu of the recently opened wine bar Allis, a new addition to the cellar door space.  Diners here can expect consistent quality of food and service in more casual surrounds, with the option to enjoy wine flights coupled with small snacks and morsels to complement each wine.

These twin venues represent the essence of Ten Minutes by Tractor, often inciting in patrons an appetite to learn more about the property and its wines. And they can. The Art of Fine Wine and Gastronomy is a ‘behind the scenes’ luxury experience including cellar discovery and five-course lunch paired with vintage wines. Terroir Masterclass is an intimate experience in the private tasting room, sampling limited and current release wines while learning the history of the region.  Tranquility & Terroir allows guests to bathe in the restorative waters of nearby Alba Thermal Springs & Spa before returning to the vineyard for a wine tasting and lunch. 

Every experience at Ten Minutes by Tractor is one to remember.

Ten Minutes by Tractor     1333 Mornington-Flinders Rd, Main Ridge  P: 5989 6455  
www.tenminutesbytractor.com.au    FB & Insta:10xtractor

The Epicurean Red Hill

Nestled in the charming hinterland of the Mornington Peninsula is the culinary treasure The Epicurean Red Hill. Housed within the refurbished historical cool stores of Red Hill, this iconic restaurant invites you to enjoy a menu that celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine and the region's finest fresh offerings. 

Home to The Store Cafe as well as The Shed Restaurant, the Epicurean is the perfect multi-functional venue with bespoke dining areas to enjoy. In The Shed you can explore the cucina-style menu focusing on fresh regional produce prepared with rustic and authentic flair. Each dish is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Wood-fired pizzas are a crowd favourite, and the a la carte menu offers something for everyone. Signature dishes such as lobster ravioli, succulent lamb shanks and an array of salami selections are sure to delight. 

But it's not just about the food, it's about the wine too. The restaurant has an extensive wine list showcasing the best the region has to offer, perfectly complementing your meal with such options as pinot noir, chardonnay and craft beer.

The rustic elegance of The Epicurean Red Hill is evident in its architecture and design. With 100-year-old recycled wharf beams, two extensive bars with wine displays and Enomatic wine dispensers, multiple large open fireplaces built from Red Hill stone, a towering glass atrium to let in natural light, and marble accents, the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. 

The ambience at The Epicurean Red Hill is pure magic, making it ideal for celebrating small and large occasions such as anniversaries, weddings and birthdays. The friendly and dedicated staff will elevate your experience, ensuring it's nothing short of exceptional. For couples planning a wedding, The Epicurean Red Hill is a dream venue. With the ability to seamlessly transition from holding the ceremony to the reception, you can relax and enjoy your special day. The Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and picturesque surroundings combine to create an unforgettable experience.

If you only need a quick snack or coffee, The Cafe at the front of the building offers delicious baked goods, continental cafe fare, and homewares and Peninsula produce to take home and enjoy. Boutique roasted coffee beans from Dukes Coffee are used and paired perfectly with pastries and honest sweet treats. 

The Epicurean Red Hill offers more than just a meal; it provides an unforgettable experience. It's a place where Italian cuisine meets rustic elegance, where flavours come to life, and where every moment is worth savouring. Whether you're a local seeking culinary adventures or a traveller in search of memorable dining, The Epicurean Red Hill welcomes you with open arms. Come for the food, stay for the ambience and leave with cherished memories that will linger long after your visit. 

Opening hours: Store Café daily 9am-3pm;
Shed Restaurant lunch Friday-Sunday; dinner Friday and Saturday

The Epicurean Red Hill   165 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South    P: 5989 4000    www.theepicurean.com.au      FB: EpicureanRedHill   Insta: theepicurean_redhill