Exploring Victoria's vast coast or inland waterways is never advised on an empty stomach. These eateries overlooking the lakes, bays and sea across the state provide the perfect setting to appreciate thunderous waves or the gentle sounds of water lapping on the bay.
Geelong and the Bellarine
Diners craving for Asian-inspired food can head to Wah Wah Gee to share a plate or two of yummy dumplings in zesty broths, to spicy steamed buns and hearty green chilli curries with friends and family in a prime location at the end of Cunningham Pier in Geelong - sitting right over the water. Cunningham Pier 10 Western Beach, Foreshore Rd, Geelong VIC 3220, (03) 5222 6377
A favourite for locals and travellers alike, Jack Rabbit Vineyard boasts unrivalled views across the bay to Geelong and Melbourne. Wine lovers can choose from an array of award-winning, sophisticated cool climate wines whilst taking in the water views. 85 McAdams Ln, Bellarine VIC 3221, (03) 5251 2223
As the name suggests, At the Heads sits right over the water in Barwon Heads perfectly placed at the entrance to Barwon River as it meets the Southern Ocean. Diners can choose between indoor and outdoor dining and tuck in to local delights whilst enjoying an extensive view of the bridge to Ocean Grove. 1A Jetty Rd, Barwon Heads VIC 3227, (03) 5254 1277
Travellers wanting to fuel up before a surf or wind down post-walk on the Surf Coast Walk can head to Captain Moonlite in Anglesea. Diners can catch tidal wave views from the light-filled dining room of the old Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club and marvel at the expansive views of Bass Strait before tucking into the seasonal, Mediterranean-inspired menu. 100 Great Ocean Rd, Anglesea VIC 3230, (03) 5263 2454
Also situated on the iconic Great Ocean Road, La Bimba offers diners a true local flavour by sourcing local fish, red meat and poultry in Apollo Bay. Diners can be assured that ingredients on the menu are gathered from local fishermen and farmers in the region which is an essential value to farmer, chef and restaurant owner, Steve Earl. 125 Great Ocean Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233, (03) 5237 7411
Yarra Valley and the Dandenong Ranges
Visitors to Rochford Winery will notice a new addition to the property, home to 400 Gradi – Yarra Valley. Built over the lake, diners can tuck in to delectable traditional Italian cuisine such as the award-winning Margherita Verace Pizza, along with an array of pizzas and mouth-watering antipasto dishes, pastas, sides and desserts, complemented by an authentic winery experience. 878-880 Maroondah Highway, Coldstream, Yarra Valley VIC 3770, (03) 5957 3399
Oceanfront restaurant The Cape Kitchen offers diners breathtaking, uninterrupted views from Cape Woolamai through to Pyramid Rock and looking out onto the Southern Ocean and Bass Strait. The restaurant supports regional, Victorian and Australian producers with a menu that has been carefully sourced and thoughtfully prepared. 1215 Phillip Island Rd, Newhaven VIC 3925, (03) 5956 7200
Visitors to Sorrento beach can enjoy a dining experience at The Baths Restaurant on the picturesque waterside, with a beautiful pier sitting gracefully in front of this seaside favourite. After a fire demolished the entire premises in 2015, the building has been recently re-built and offers amazing views and fresh food to visitors and locals alike. 3278 Point Nepean Rd, Sorrento VIC 3943, (03) 5984 1500
Not directly on the water, but visitors can claim they have found a hidden gem that is Blue Range Estate winery, which has sweeping sea views of both Port Phillip and in the distance Bass Strait. A cellar door and family run restaurant with Italian heritage, visitors will find this winery at the very back of Rosebud as they travel along a dirt road climbing to a high vantage point which looks over the southern end of the peninsula. 155 Gardens Rd, Rosebud VIC 3939, 0419 553 343
Whether it’s Sunday breakfast, or just stopover for lunch on the way through town, café-goers at The Boardwalk Bendigo can relax and take in the ambience overlooking Lake Weeroona. Open every day, the restaurant also caters to four-legged pals welcomed by their resident Labrador, Chino, who loves to make friends. Nolan St, Bendigo VIC 3550, (03) 5443 9855
Travellers can opt to dine at the grand pavilion at Pipers by the Lake on the foreshore of Lake Wendouree. Post meal, diners can cross the road to take an afternoon stroll at the Ballarat Botanical Garden. 403 Wendouree Parade, Lake Wendouree VIC 3350, (03) 5334 1811
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