Where to eat in Geelong

A curated guide to Geelong’s best restaurants.

Geelong’s upmarket restaurant scene is a testament to the city’s growing reputation as a culinary destination. With a diverse range of dining establishments offering refined and sophisticated experiences, food enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. From elegant fine dining establishments that showcase exquisite dishes crafted by talented chefs to modern eateries with innovative menus, Geelong’s upmarket restaurants cater to discerning palates seeking exceptional cuisine. These venues boast stylish and inviting interiors, creating an ambiance that is both refined and welcoming.

Whether you’re seeking a memorable gastronomic journey or a refined dining experience, this guide is an invaluable resource for indulging in the best that Geelong has to offer.

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Alma

Alma restaurant in Geelong is an exquisite dining destination that effortlessly combines stylish and classy decor with a tantalizing South American cuisine. The restaurant’s interior showcases a tasteful blend of contemporary design elements, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. Alma specializes in share plates, allowing guests to savour an array of flavours and culinary delights with their companions. For those seeking a truly immersive experience, Alma offers a “feed me” option, where the chef curates a selection of dishes to showcase the best of the menu. The ambiance at Alma is vibrant and lively, making it an ideal choice for a memorable dining experience. To complement the flavoursome dishes, Alma boasts an impressive wine list featuring a curated selection of local and international wines. With its stylish decor, delectable cuisine, and well-curated wine list, Alma restaurant is a true gem in Geelong’s culinary scene.

Felix

Felix restaurant is a hidden gem that transports guests to a world of French-inspired culinary delights. Tucked away down the end of a laneway, this restaurant exudes class and sophistication. Stepping inside, guests are greeted by a breathtaking interior design that seamlessly blends European elegance with modern aesthetics. The stunning bar takes centre stage, serving as a captivating focal point for diners. The menu at Felix showcases a range of French culinary delights, from classic dishes like bouillabaisse to modern interpretations of French cuisine. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared with the finest ingredients, resulting in flavours that truly evoke the essence of France. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner or a special gathering, Felix Geelong offers an unforgettable dining experience where you can immerse yourself in the charm and sophistication of French-inspired cuisine and ambiance.

Restaurant IGNI

Igni is a renowned restaurant tucked away in another unassuming laneway, Ryan Place. Led by Chef Aaron Turner, Igni offers an exceptional dining experience with its innovative and contemporary Australian cuisine. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing local and seasonal ingredients, which are transformed into beautifully crafted dishes. Igni’s degustation menu takes guests on a culinary journey, showcasing the chef’s creativity and attention to detail. With its elegant and minimalist decor, Igni provides a relaxed atmosphere, making it a favourite among food enthusiasts seeking a unique and memorable experience. If you haven’t experienced Igni yet, then don’t miss your opportunity, as they will be closing their doors in September, 2023.

Awarded Two Hats with the Good food guide 2023 Awards in Victoria.

La Cachette

La Cachette is a hidden gem of a French restaurant that captures the essence of Parisian cuisine in the heart of Geelong. Owned and helmed by a talented chef, this intimate venue offers a truly authentic dining experience. What sets La Cachette apart is its unique concept of a frequently changing fixed-price menu, ensuring that each visit is a delightful surprise for the taste buds. The carefully crafted dishes showcase the finest seasonal ingredients, expertly prepared to showcase the flavors of France. To enhance the dining experience, La Cachette also offers impeccable wine pairings, expertly chosen by a knowledgeable sommelier. This ensures that each course is perfectly complemented by a carefully selected wine, elevating the flavors and creating a harmonious culinary journey. With its enchanting ambiance, delectable cuisine, and attentive service, La Cachette Geelong is a true haven for food lovers seeking an exquisite taste of France.

Frankie

Frankie is a vibrant venue that brings together the flavours of Pan-Asian fusion cuisine. With its diverse and innovative menu, Frankie offers a delightful culinary journey that combines the best of Asian flavours with a contemporary twist. The restaurant also boasts a stylish cocktail bar, where guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes. The interior design of Frankie is sleek and modern, with a stylish white palette that creates an elegant and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s generous share plates encourage communal dining and allow guests to savor a variety of flavours. Alongside the delectable cuisine, Frankie prides itself on providing excellent service, ensuring that every visit is a memorable and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic dinner, or a fun evening with friends, Frankie is the perfect spot to enjoy delicious food in a trendy setting in Geelong.

The Arborist

The Arborist is a contemporary restaurant and bar that offers a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. Known for its modern Australian cuisine, Arborist provides a diverse menu with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. From shared plates to hearty mains, the dishes at Arborist are crafted with creativity and attention to detail. The restaurant’s stylish interior, featuring an indoor tree as a centerpiece, creates a unique and visually appealing setting for diners. Outdoor dining is also a feature and during the winter months you are made comfortable with an outdoor fireplace, blankets and outdoor heaters. With its friendly service and an extensive drinks menu including craft beers and cocktails, Arborist is a popular choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions in Geelong. The Arborist has recently undergone a rooftop extension where you can enjoy a cocktail in the rooftop bar.

Eastern Spice

Eastern Spice in Geelong is unique and seeks to elevate Indian cuisine to new heights. This upmarket restaurant offers a dining experience that goes beyond your average Indian eatery. With a focus on authentic flavors and creative presentations, Eastern Spice delivers a culinary journey that surprises and delights the taste buds. From traditional curries to innovative fusion dishes, each plate is a work of art. Adding to the charm, the restaurant offers gorgeous views towards the waterfront, providing a picturesque backdrop for your meal. If you’re seeking an Indian dining experience that breaks the mold and showcases the best of this vibrant cuisine, Eastern Spice is the perfect choice in Geelong.

Osteria Fiorenza

Osteria Fiorenza is a charming Italian restaurant located in Geelong, offering a taste of traditional Italian cuisine with a contemporary twist. As you step inside, you are welcomed by a warm and inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a cozy Italian trattoria. The menu at Osteria Fiorenza showcases a range of classic Italian dishes prepared with passion and using the finest local ingredients. From homemade pasta, delectable seafood and succulent meats, each dish is crafted with attention to detail, capturing the authentic flavours of Italy. Be sure to book in advance, as this little gem is very popular and has limited seating.

Bistrot Plume

Bistrot Plume is a charming French-inspired restaurant located in Belmont, Geelong. From the moment you step inside, you are transported to a cozy and inviting bistro with its warm and elegant ambiance. Bistrot Plume offers a delightful menu that celebrates French cuisine with a modern twist. With a focus on using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, the talented chefs at Bistrot Plume craft dishes that are both visually appealing and full of flavour. From classic French dishes like beef bourguignon and duck a l’orange to indulgent desserts like crème brûlée, every dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail. With attentive service and an extensive wine list, Bistrot Plume creates a memorable dining experience where you can savour the tastes of France in the heart of Belmont.

1915

Located within the Federal Mills precinct, 1915 restaurant in Geelong is housed in a beautifully renovated heritage building that exudes rustic charm. The restaurant’s interior showcases a stunning fusion of old-world elegance and contemporary design. With its sharing plates concept, 1915 encourages guests to indulge in a communal dining experience, savoring a variety of flavors and textures. For those seeking a hassle-free dining experience, the “feed me” menu option allows the chef to curate a delightful selection of dishes. The drink options at 1915 are plentiful, with a wide selection of wines, beers, and, most notably, delicious handcrafted cocktails. The simplistic decor pays homage to the building’s history, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, 1915 restaurant is a fantastic choice, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere, delectable cuisine, and exceptional service.

Sailors Rest

Sailors Rest restaurant and bar in Geelong is a captivating waterfront destination that offers a unique dining experience across multiple levels. Situated right on the water’s edge, Sailors Rest boasts a multi-level layout that provides breathtaking views of the bay from various vantage points. The restaurant features a cozy and inviting interior, while the highlight of the establishment is undoubtedly the rooftop bar. Ascend to the rooftop and discover a stylish and vibrant space where you can relax, socialise, and enjoy panoramic views of the waterfront. Whether you’re sipping on a handcrafted cocktail, sampling a variety of local beers, or indulging in delicious dishes from the menu, Sailors Rest offers an exceptional setting for a memorable dining experience. Whether you choose to dine indoors or enjoy the open-air atmosphere of the rooftop bar, Sailors Rest provides a charming venue where you can savour delicious food and drinks while taking in the beauty of the Geelong waterfront.

Recess Bar & Eats

Recess Bar and Eats in Geelong is a vibrant and inclusive establishment that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. What sets Recess apart is its commitment to offering a totally gluten-free menu, ensuring that all guests can enjoy their dining experience without worry. The bar serves up a diverse range of handcrafted cocktails that are both visually stunning and delicious. Additionally, Recess provides entertainment throughout the week, with Drag Show Fridays being a highlight that promises an unforgettable evening of performances. For those looking to indulge in a leisurely weekend brunch, Recess offers a delightful bottomless brunch experience that is sure to satisfy. With its inclusive atmosphere, gluten-free options, creative cocktails, and entertaining events, Recess Bar and Eats provides a dynamic and enjoyable space for everyone in Geelong.

WestEnd

WestEnd is a stylish and contemporary restaurant located in Geelong, offering a delightful culinary experience in a chic setting. With its sleek and modern interior, WestEnd creates an inviting and sophisticated atmosphere. The menu at WestEnd showcases a fusion of international flavors, incorporating fresh, local ingredients to create dishes that are both visually stunning and delicious. From inventive small plates and tantalizing mains to decadent desserts, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to satisfy the discerning palate. Complemented by a well-curated wine list and attentive service, dining at WestEnd is an experience to be savored. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a celebratory meal, or simply a memorable night out, WestEnd delivers a memorable dining experience in the heart of Geelong.

Edge

The Edge is an old favourite with locals and offers a modern dining experience that is sure to please any taste. With its innovative menu featuring a fusion of flavours and culinary techniques, guests can indulge in a diverse range of mouthwatering dishes. The restaurant also boasts an impressive cocktail menu, perfect for those looking to enjoy a refreshing drink alongside their meal. The outdoor eating area provides a charming setting where guests can savor their food while enjoying the scenic views of the waterfront. To enhance the dining experience, The Edge offers live music, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere. With its spacious layout, The Edge is an ideal choice for groups and functions, accommodating large parties for special occasions. Situated opposite the waterfront, The Edge offers a fantastic location, adding to its appeal as a top dining destination in Geelong.

Caledonia Shores

Caledonia Shores is an exceptional restaurant in Geelong that offers a unique dining experience with its enticing Asian fusion cuisine. Nestled in a charming historic building, the restaurant exudes character and charm. Guests can enjoy their meal on the inviting balcony, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Inside, the decor reflects a modern coastal aesthetic, with a tasteful blend of contemporary elements and Asian-inspired accents. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff create a welcoming vibe, making it a delightful place to indulge in the flavorful Asian fusion dishes. From mouthwatering sushi rolls and delectable stir-fries to tantalizing curries and innovative fusion creations, Caledonia Shores delivers a remarkable culinary journey. With its stunning location, enticing cuisine, and stylish ambiance, Caledonia Shores is a must-visit for those seeking an unforgettable Asian fusion dining experience in Geelong.