Foodie Hotspots in Regional Australia

From the olive groves of the Grampians to bustling farmers markets by the Murray, Australia’s regional towns are packed with premium paddock-to-plate experiences, food festivals, boutique producers and family-run kitchens. Covering wine country, abundant hinterland and Australia’s famous food bowls, it’s no wonder many country regions are now marked on the map as foodie hotspots. So if you think the best eats in Australia are in the capital cities, it’s time to hit the road. 

Known for its artesian hot springs, Moree is also today also a premium foodie destination. With a rich agricultural heritage, the surrounding area produces a huge variety of crops, including olives, grapes and pecans. Held annually, the Moree on a Plate festival celebrates its local growers and chefs with cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, gourmet food stalls and artisan treats.

For a true taste of the region, don’t miss the Moree Markets where you can browse, sample and snap up seasonal fruit and veggies, homemade preserves, baked treats, and handcrafted wares. When it comes to dining out, Maslina Bar & Grill is one of the top Moree restaurants known for locally sourced produce. Tuck into a succulent rib eye or private selection sirloin, cooked and delivered with flair. 

Where to stay

Home to the renowned Maslina Bar & Grill, Comfort Inn Moree is a great Moree accommodation option that is also close to other Sunshine Coast restaurants, local attractions and famous sites.

Surrounded by spectacular beaches and lush hinterland, it’s easy to forget the Sunshine Coast is also an abundant foodie hotspot. From July to August, The Curated Plate Sunshine Coast Festival in Mooloolaba brings together chefs, farmers and food lovers in a celebration of the region’s incredible produce. With long lunches, cooking collaborations, and tasting trails, the festival is a must for any aspiring gourmand.

While you’re enjoying the local flavours, make a stop at Bocca Italian Bokarina. Situated by Bokarina Beach, this Italian eatery is known for its woodfired pizzas and handmade pasta. You can also enjoy the cool coastal vibe as you work your way from the salumi and formaggi (smallgoods and cheese) plates to secondi (large plates) of roasted market fish, braised beef cheek or crumbed pork loin. 

Where to stay

Relax and enjoy Bokarina’s charms by staying at the beachside Bokarina Beach Apartments - a top Sunshine Coast accommodation favourite. You can also explore the sunset market and the nearby seafood markets by staying in modern resort-style apartment accommodation at First Light Mooloolaba.

A scenic drive from Melbourne, the western Grampian town of Horsham is nestled in a land of wines, olives and award-winning cafes and restaurants. You can get a taste of the region at Grampians Olive Co, one of Australia’s oldest olive groves. This hideaway has been crafting acclaimed organic oils since 1943 and their shop is packed with olive products and seasonal tastings.

For a taste of local viticulture, Norton Estate Wines beckon visitors with some seriously stylish reds and whites. The cellar door offers tastings with panoramic views of the vines, perfect for sipping a signature shiraz amongst the rugged beauty of the Grampians. This region has been producing wine since the 1860’s, and Norton Estate uses innovative techniques to notch up the flavours and intensity.  

If you’re looking for a good coffee and hearty breakfast or lunch, Cheeky Fox Café is a local favourite coffee stop. Take a breather and tuck into a cheesy chilli scramble or big breakfast burger. There are plenty of vegetarian choices, such as the Vego Big Brekkie and falafel burger, alongside local favourites such as the steak sanga. 

Where to stay

If you’re wondering where to stay in Horsham, some great Horsham accommodation options provide bases for exploring the stunning beauty of the Grampians National Park and enjoying some of its awesome flavours.

Situated on the Murray River and in Australia’s food bowl, Barham is renowned for its high-quality food and wine experiences. Check out the Barham Koondrook Farmers Market, where you can pick up farm-fresh vegetables, honey, olives, and riverland preserves. It’s held monthly and also hosts kids cooking classes and market tours.

Tucked away in a small batch vineyard, Barham Vines Cellar Door is another boutique gem where you can sample signature reds and sit down to a fresh, seasonal lunch among the vines. Their platters and grazing boards are perfect for sharing, and the relaxed riverside setting makes it a top spot to enjoy the surrounding charms.

For contemporary local dining that delivers classic favourites, cluBarham offers a mix of modern Australian and international fare such as Chinese cuisine at Don’s Kitchen or alfresco dining at the Rivergum Bistro. This venue serves its food alongside a calendar of live music and events - and even lawn bowls - ensuring that you won’t be left wondering where to eat in Barham if you’re looking for some activity. 

Where to stay

Barham accommodation offers some great choices, from Comfort Suites Clubarham Golf Resort (formerly cluBarham Golf Resort), an idyllic destination nestled on the banks of the Murray River, and Comfort Inn Clubarham, which combines the former cluBarham Motel and cluBarham River Motel. 

Over the past few years, the goldfields-era town of Bendigo and its surrounding area has firmly established itself as a leader in the regional Victorian food and wine scene. Held on the second Saturday of the month, the Bendigo Community Farmers Market is a great way to get up close and personal with local producers and try everything from brewhouse coffee to lush seasonal fruit and vegetables, cheeses and Asian desserts.

Bendigo is also one of Australia's top meat producing regions - and you can head straight to flavoursome sources at The Woodhouse Bar & Grill. Specialising in Wagyu beef cooked over red gum on the grill, the award-winning restaurant plates up everything from locally raised beef to pork belly and slow-cooked ribs. Enjoy the smokey flavours with a craft beer or one of the many wines to match.

Where to stay

Wondering where to stay in Bendigo? Located in a quiet and picturesque spot opposite Lake Weeroona, and close to Bendigo markets and top restaurants in Bendigo, Quality Hotel Lakeside is your perfect base.

_{Header Image Credit: Tourism Australia/Visit Victoria.}