Clare Valley Restaurants You Must Try

We’ve rounded up our favourite Clare Valley restaurants for you to enjoy on your trip to this charming and historic wine region.

The area might be known for its wineries and cellar doors, but the Clare Valley restaurant scene is not to be underestimated. With plenty of dining options, from multi-course degustations to casual woodfired pizzas, you’ll be spoiled for choice. We’ve rounded up our favourite Clare Valley restaurants for you to enjoy on your trip to this charming and historic wine region.

1. Skillogalee Restaurant

If farm-to-table dining is your thing, look no further than the lovely restaurant at the acclaimed winery Skillogalee. The refined menu celebrates local Clare Valley and South Australian produce, including ingredients from local suppliers as well as the restaurant’s kitchen garden.

people dining al fresco at Skillogalee Restaurant — Skillogalee Restaurant elevates the farm-to-table dining experience. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Mike Annese)

With dishes such as chicken-liver parfait with pickled cherries, hand-rolled gnocchi with zucchini, pistachio and mint and a delectable 12-hour lamb shoulder, you’ll get a taste of Clare Valley with every mouthful.

a close-up of a dish at Skillogalee Restaurant — Choose from the refined menu at the acclaimed winery Skillogalee.(Image: John Montesi)

Address: 23 Trevarrick Rd, Sevenhill

2. Ragu and Co

Delicious Italian food in the heart of Clare? Don’t mind if we do. Ragu and Co is a warm and authentic restaurant serving saucy pastas, fresh pizzas and traditional Italian dishes that’ll transport you straight to the med.

an array of Italian dishes on the table at Ragu and Co — Relish in Italian fare at Ragu and Co.

Our pick? The crispy skin barramundi with tomatoes, capers and olives – perfection.

mushroom and truffle arancini and pasta with wine at Ragu and Co — Try Ragu and Co’s mushroom and truffle arancini paired with wine.

Address: 308 Main North Road, Clare

3. Slate Restaurant at Pikes

Known as one of the best restaurants in Clare Valley, Slate serves modern Australian dishes designed to showcase the beautiful wine produced at Pikes vineyards.

a spacious dining setup at Slate Restaurant at Pikes — Nab a table inside the spacious and elegant Slate Restaurant at Pikes. (Image: Pikes Wines)

The seasonal menu boasts a fusion of Japanese, Middle Eastern, Italian and French flavours, offering guests a surprising culinary experience that delights the palate and pairs perfectly with their delicious drops!

a chef doing meal preparations at Slate Restaurant at Pikes — Slate Restaurant at Pikes offers a fusion of international cuisines. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 233 Polish Hill Road, Sevenhill

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4. Watervale Hotel

This understated gem in Watervale might not have the crisp tablecloths and abundant cutlery of a fine-dining restaurant, but when it comes to excellent food, it sure delivers.

a staff arranging the dining table at Watervale Hotel — Snag a spot in the long table for lunch at Watervale Hotel. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The hotel team prides themselves on their commitment to providing an ‘ethical epicurean’ experience, offering a range of delicious, seasonal and local dishes that cater to all dietaries.

a plate of food on the table at Watervale Hotel — Watervale Hotel commits to provide an ‘ethical epicurean’ experience. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 37 Main North Road, Watervale

5. Seed Clare Valley

If you’re after a relaxed restaurant in Clare Valley serving delicious cocktails and woodfired pizzas, look no further than Seed. This casual spot has a fun rooftop bar where you can enjoy a cold drink and a slice of pizza, as well as a bistro menu for more elevated dining. Don’t miss the fab deli full of gourmet goodies including specialty cheeses and fresh cuts of meat.

specialty cheeses and meat on a platter at Seed Clare Valley — Order gourmet goodies at Seed Clare Valley.

Address: 268 Main North Road, Clare

6. Bush Devine Winery Restaurant

Native ingredients shine on the menu at Bush Devine Winery, the restaurant at Paulett Wines in Polish Hill. Expect to see lemon myrtle, saltbush, bunya nuts and finger limes enriching the dishes with a distinctly Australian twist and showcasing the outstanding flavours this area has to offer.

a food platter with matching wines at Bush Devine Winery Restaurant — Bush Devine Winery Restaurant draws ingredients from their very own Australian native garden.

If you’re opting for the five-course set menu (you should!), give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this gastronomic experience with matching wines – you won’t be disappointed.

guests enjoying food and drinks at Bush Devine Winery, Paulett Wines in Polish Hill — Indulge in a five-course set menu at Bush Devine Winery, the restaurant at Paulett Wines in Polish Hill. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 752 Jolly Way, Polish Hill River

7. Mr. Mick

Mr. Mick is one of the most popular Clare Valley restaurants, and for good reason.

transferring pork belly from a pan — Mr. Mick’s twice-cooked pork belly is extra savoury. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

The historic building oozes character, while the relaxed menu features fan favourites such as cheesy arancini, squid with sweet chilli jam, and an indulgent twice-cooked pork belly you’ll be thinking about for days. They also serve a range of yummy pizzas on Sundays.

a close-up of dishes on the table at Mr. Mick — With Mr. Mick’s diverse offerings, you’ll be surely spoilt for choice. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 7 Dominic Street, Clare

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8. Reilly’s Restaurant

The charming town of Mintaro is home to Reilly’s Restaurant, where the tastes of the region are explored in their seasonal menu.

old people dining outside Reilly’s Restaurant — Opt for a five-course ‘Long Lunch’ with matching wines at Reilly’s Restaurant. (Image: Tourism Australia / South Australian Tourism Commission)

Whether you opt to order à la carte or fully indulge in the five-course ‘Long Lunch’ with matching wines, you’ll enjoy gourmet classics guaranteed to delight. Prefer a more relaxed bite? Try Reilly’s cellar door, where you can order grazing platters alongside your wine tasting.

a close-up shot of a food plate at Reilly’s Restaurant — Enjoy gourmet classics guaranteed to delight.

Address: Corner Leasingham Road & Hill St, Mintaro

9. O’Leary Walker Restaurant

The sleek O’Leary Walker is one of the most contemporary Clare Valley restaurants, offering a chic menu designed to share. The tightly edited selection is heavy on the small plates, so you can taste a variety of flavours from the area.

pouring wine into a glass on the dinner table at O’Leary Walker Restaurant — Wine and dine at O’Leary Walker Restaurant. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

We’re ordering the pork and lemongrass wontons, the sticky Thai peanut cauliflower, and the Shiraz-glazed beef rib with celeriac and garlic – foodie heaven. Got dietaries? Stress not. There are lots of options for our GF, DF and vegan friends, too.

a close-up shot of a dish at O’Leary Walker Restaurant — The menu is heavy on the small plates. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Address: 7093 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham

10. Antidote Kitchen

A new venture from the former head chef of Clare Valley institution Indii of Clare, Antidote is bringing Indian street food to the table at this buzzy new spot.

a close-up shot of a food on a plate alongside a drink on the table at Antidote Kitchen — Savour mouth-watering meals at Antidote Kitchen.

Originally a pop-up kitchen servicing local wineries on weekends, Antidote found their permanent home in the old Chaff Mill in Clare just a few months ago, and have been delivering mouth-watering meals every day since.

a table-top view of food plates at Antidote Kitchen — Antidote brings Indian street food to the table.

Address: 308b Main North Road, Clare

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

10 Clare Valley restaurants to book

We’ve rounded up our favourite Clare Valley restaurants for you to enjoy on your trip to this charming and historic wine region.

1. Skillogalee Restaurant

2. Ragu and Co

3. Slate Restaurant at Pikes

4. Watervale Hotel

5. Seed Clare Valley

6. Bush Devine Winery Restaurant

7. Mr. Mick

8. Reilly’s Restaurant

9. O’Leary Walker Restaurant

10. Antidote Kitchen

15 of the must-visit Clare Valley wineries

8 of the best places to stay in the Clare Valley

The ultimate guide to the Clare Valley Riesling Trail

7 of the best things to do in the Clare Valley

The ultimate spring and summer guide to Melbourne