Best spots to grab a bite to eat in Queenscliff

In the 1880s, Queenscliff was one of the most fashionable seaside resorts for visiting Melbournians, and there’s still plenty of heritage charm to complement the sea views while you indulge in its many dining options. If you’re not arriving by road, via the Bellarine Peninsula, arrive by sea like they did in the old days. Searoad Ferries operate between Queenscliff and Sorrento.

It’s hard to know what’s better about this place, the sea views or the food. Either way, you’re sure to have a good time. Right on the waterfront, overlooking Queenscliff Harbour, 360Q serves up dishes like Atlantic salmon with leek spinach and edamame, and spiced miso eggplant with artichoke, tabouli and tofu. It gets extra points at sunset.

It’s got the old-fashioned corner store look going on from the outside, but inside, the food is seriously impressive. This is a breakfast, lunch, cake & coffee kind of place, but you can also pick up some fancy groceries too.

Like a bit of greenery around you? Slip down the narrow passageway off Hesse Street and you’ll enter a lovely garden café-cum-plant nursery. The food is fantastic and you can pick up some plants and handmade gifts while you’re at it.

Popular with locals and visitors alike, this family-run Italian restaurant is the go for pizza and pasta. Their Portarlington mussels served in bacon, chilli and Napoli sauce are a favourite.

If you’re keen for a decent drink to go with your meal, head to the Queenscliff Brewhouse. Set in an 1879 corner pub overlooking the bay, it’s craft beer heaven. Next door at Queenscliff Distillery Cellar Door you can sample their gins, from citrus to hibiscus.

Taking design inspiration from the heritage Waiting Shed at the end of Queenscliff Pier, this bar and eatery serves up modern Australian with a hint of Europe and the Middle East. Most of it is cooked fresh on the grill, like their chermoula-marinated king prawns with pearl couscous. There’s plenty of outdoor courtyard seating too.

Nearby…

Croquettes and charcuterie platters go well with the seriously impressive wine list at the classy Noble Rot Wine Bar in Point Lonsdale.

If you’re looking for vineyard-style wining and dining, head to Basils Farm with its extensive gardens and panoramic views over Swan Bay.

The Vue Grand hotel has been a Queenscliff icon ever since it was built in 1881 and it’s still embraces its period style. Take a seat at the bar and watch the world go by while enjoying share plates and pub favourites.

For something completely different, hop aboard the heritage Q Train. It’s fine wining and dining served with a side of picturesque coastal countryside. Usually diesel-powered, once a month they hook up the steam locomotive.