The Mornington Peninsula is a haven for relaxation and indulgence, home to the world-famous Peninsula Hot Springs and heaps of top restaurants. After a soak in the geothermal waters of the Bath House, the perfect way to top off your day is with a meal that feeds your body and soul. With a focus on whole food, local produce and diverse dining options, this region is full of culinary gems. In this guide we’ll explore the best restaurants and cafes near Peninsula Hot Springs, from casual to fine dining, all serving up a delicious meal to match your wellness journey.
The Allure of Dining Near the Hot Springs
What makes dining near the Peninsula Hot Springs so good? It’s not just the food, it’s the whole experience. The connection between wellness and food is part of the bathing experience, as the Mornington Peninsula is famous for its food and local produce. Many of the restaurants in the area have menus that focus on whole food and seasonal ingredients which match the peaceful vibe of the hot springs. With stunning views of the peninsula and native bush for your dining backdrop every meal becomes an experience in itself. Whether you’re after a light and nourishing meal or a more indulgent gourmet experience the options in the area allow you to stay well even after you leave the spa.
Spa Dreaming Centre Café
Located within the Peninsula Hot Springs, the Spa Dreaming Centre Café is the go to spot for those who want to stay in the zone. With a range of whole food options this all weather eatery is perfect for a light and nourishing meal. The menu features fresh salads, sandwiches and even gourmet pizza all made with ingredients sourced from local farms.
Visitors can enjoy their meal while taking in the peaceful surroundings, with outdoor seating available for those who want to dine al fresco surrounded by native bush. The Spa Dreaming Centre also has disabled access so everyone can dine in comfort. Whether you’re popping in for a quick bite between treatments or sitting down for a more leisurely meal this café is the perfect accompaniment to your day of relaxation.
Ten Minutes by Tractor
If you want to go upmarket, Ten Minutes by Tractor is a must. Only a short drive from the hot springs, this award-winning restaurant is all about seasonal, local produce. Each dish at Ten Minutes by Tractor is crafted with love, with flavours that reflect the Mornington Peninsula.
Their menu changes seasonally, with fresh, new dishes that showcase the regions best ingredients. With views of the vineyards and a huge wine list, Ten Minutes by Tractor is the perfect place to have a multi course meal after a day of soaking in the geothermal waters. It’s a real restaurant, with local produce and great service and scenery.
Tedesca Osteria
If you want a more rustic but refined experience, Tedesca Osteria is the place. This small restaurant is all about farm to table, with a daily changing menu that focuses on seasonal, local ingredients. Tedesca’s food is simple but beautifully done, so the natural flavours of the produce can shine through.
The restaurant’s atmosphere, with its warm, earthy tones and views of the surrounding countryside, is totally immersive. After a day of soaking at the hot springs, a meal at Tedesca Osteria will leave you full and connected to the earth. It’s a great way to experience the real Mornington Peninsula, that’s why locals and visitors love it.
Doot Doot Doot
Doot Doot Doot, located in the super modern Jackalope Hotel, is a feast for the eyes and taste buds. Known for its design and menu, Doot Doot Doot is a modern dining experience that breaks the rules of traditional food. The chefs here are masters of fusion food, combining local ingredients with international flavours to create dishes that are new and delicious.
The dining room, with its dramatic lighting and views of the peninsula, is the icing on the cake. Whether you’re a fan of multi course degustations or prefer to order à la carte, Doot Doot Doot is a dining experience you won’t forget. Perfect for a special occasion or just to spoil yourself after a day of indulging at the hot springs, this restaurant is a must for foodies.
Audrey’s
If you love seafood, go to Audrey’s. They specialise in seafood experiences, with the freshest catches from the ocean just down the road, cooked with a modern twist. The menu at Audrey’s lets the seafood shine, with seasonal produce from the Mornington Peninsula.
Located by the coast, Audrey’s has great food and views. Whether you’re in for breakfast or a lazy dinner, you’ll find this place is a calm and peaceful spot to match the hot springs.
Port Phillip Estate
With its stunning design and 360 degree views, Port Phillip Estate is a one off. The restaurant is situated in a modernist building overlooking the vineyard and is known for its contemporary Australian food and estate grown wines.
Port Phillip Estate is the perfect spot for a post spa meal, with dishes that showcase the region’s food source with fresh produce and distinct flavours. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating so you can take in the views while you eat. A meal here is a real gourmet experience, food and views.
Barragunda Estate Café
A secret on the Mornington Peninsula, Barragunda Estate Café is a calm and stylish cafe for a quiet meal after your spa day. The café serves fresh seasonal food with a menu that changes regularly to reflect what’s in season in the region.
With its pretty setting and wholesome food, Barragunda Estate Café is the perfect spot to have a lazy meal or boutique coffee. The cafe is surrounded by greenery and is a peaceful spot to relax after a day in the baths.
Green Olive at Red Hill
For a more hands on farm to table experience go to Green Olive at Red Hill. This family run farm and cafe gives visitors the opportunity to eat the freshest produce straight from the earth. The menu has gourmet pizza to heartier fare, all made with produce grown on the farm.
After a day at the Peninsula Hot Springs, there’s no better place to eat than Green Olive, where you can really taste the difference that fresh, local produce makes. The cafe also offers cooking classes and tastings, so it’s a great spot for foodies who want to learn more about the region’s food bowl.
Elements Eatery
If you have dietary requirements or just want a lighter option, Elements Eatery has a menu to suit. Specialising in vegetarian, vegan and gluten free dishes this is the perfect place for health conscious diners to continue their wellness journey through food.
Just a short drive from the hot springs, Elements Eatery, is a peaceful spot to sit and enjoy your meal. The menu is all about wholesome food that’s good for you and will fill you up, perfect for a post spa meal.
The Hungry Peacock Café
If you’re traveling with family or just want a casual eatery, The Hungry Peacock Café is the way to go. This family friendly café has a wide range of yummy food from gourmet pizza to salads and big breakfasts. With outdoor seating and a warm vibe it’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day at the hot springs.
The café’s focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients means every meal is not only tasty but good for you, aligns with the wellness philosophy of the Peninsula Hot Springs.
Conclusion
Whether you’re in the mood for fine dining, casual eats or something in between, the Mornington Peninsula has plenty of options near the hot springs. Each restaurant and café offers not only great food but a setting to enhance your wellness journey. From seafood and farm to table to laid back cafes with views, the dining options near the hot springs are as nourishing as the springs themselves. If after a hearty dinner or a delicious lunch you want to relax and take in the local vistas, book a Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs Tour.
FAQ
Are there family friendly dining options near Peninsula Hot Springs?
Yes, The Hungry Peacock Café is family friendly, with a variety of meals in a warm and cozy space.
What kind of food is at the Spa Dreaming Centre Café?
The Spa Dreaming Centre Café has wholesome food options like fresh salads, soups and gourmet pizza to match the spa experience.
Are there vegan or gluten free options near Peninsula Hot Springs?
Yes, Elements Eatery has a big range of vegan, vegetarian and gluten free dishes for those with dietary requirements.
Which restaurant near Peninsula Hot Springs has the best seafood?
Audrey’s has the real deal seafood experience, fresh seafood, sustainably sourced in a beachside setting.
Is there fine dining near Peninsula Hot Springs?
Yes, Ten Minutes by Tractor and Doot Doot Doot are both fine dining options with local food and regional flavours.