Phillip Island, a beautiful island with its natural wonders and wildlife, has a food scene growing too. From beachside cafes to fine dining, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in San Remo or Cape Woolamai, there’s plenty of places to eat and drink. Here’s our guide to the best places to eat and drink on Phillip Island, from breakfast to dinner, with views. Let’s eat around the island.
Food Scene
Phillip Island’s food scene is as diverse as its landscape. With a cooler climate that brings out the best in local produce, the island has everything from burger bars to water front restaurants. Fresh local ingredients are the hero in many places so it’s a foodie’s heaven for Aussie, seafood and international (Greek and Italian food). The food scene is always changing with new places opening and old favourites remaining so it’s exciting for locals and visitors.
Breakfast and Brunch
A day on Phillip Island starts with breakfast or brunch. Here are the top places to do just that.
The Cape Kitchen
At Cape Woolamai, The Cape Kitchen is more than a meal, it’s an experience. Famous for their buttermilk hotcakes and charcuterie boards, this modern restaurant has 270 degree water views of the coastline. The menu features dishes that showcase native herbs and local produce so it’s the perfect place to taste the Bass Coast. The laid back vibe and delicious food makes it a bruncher’s heaven.
Island Whole Foods
For a healthy start to your day head to Island Whole Foods on Thompson Avenue in Cowes. This cafe is famous for their plant based menu, acai bowls, fresh smoothies and gluten free options. With a focus on sustainable dining the cafe sources local ingredients and serves food for all dietary needs. Friendly staff and a warm atmosphere makes it a family feel, so start your day here.
Lunch and Dinner
From casual to fine dining with views, Phillip Island’s got you covered.
The Shed Phillip Island
In Cowes The Shed Phillip Island is a great place to get a feed with the family. The menu has burgers and wood fired pizzas, beef and pub grub. The family friendly atmosphere and varied menu makes it perfect for lunch or dinner. The beer garden is open during the warmer months where you can enjoy craft beer and live music.
Saltwater Phillip Island
With views of Western Port Bay Saltwater Phillip Island is a must dine. Located in Newhaven this modern restaurant serves Aussie dishes with a focus on fresh local seafood. You can have pasta dishes or beef dishes while taking in the beach views. The food is as beautiful as the island itself so Saltwater is a top choice for lunch and dinner.
The Foreshore Bar & Restaurant
In Rhyll the Foreshore Bar & Restaurant has 270 degree views of the bay. Pizzas, seafood specials and pasta dishes and an extensive wine list with local and international options. Outdoor seating perfect for wine tasting so it’s a great spot for dinner or lunch by the water.
Cafes for Coffee and Snacks
Need a coffee or snack? Phillip Island has you covered.
G’Day Tiger
On Thompson Avenue G’Day Tiger is a cool spot for great coffee and brekkie. The barista made coffee, breakfast burritos and colourful smoothie bowls. Friendly staff and a relaxed vibe make it a local and visitor favourite.
MadCowes Cafe & Foodstore
On the Cowes Esplanade MadCowes Cafe & Foodstore is a go to for a chill vibe and food that’s delicious and instagrammable. All day breakfast menu has the usual suspects like smashed avocado toast and the innovative like buttermilk hotcakes. The views of the bay are gorgeous so it’s a great spot for a coffee or snack.
Seafood
Being so close to the water means fresh seafood is always on the menu. Here’s where to get it.
Isola di Capri
A Cowes institution for years, Isola di Capri has served Italian food and seafood: pasta dishes, fresh fish, and seafood specials like their famous seafood linguine. Family-friendly and beach views make it a great spot for lunch or dinner.
San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op
Cross the Phillip Island Bridge, and you’ll find the San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op, a seafood lover’s heaven. Famous for its fresh catches and fish and chips, this institution offers a taste of the sea. You can eat while watching the local fishermen unloading their daily catch, the ultimate bonus. The co-op is part of the San Remo – Drink & Dine Trail.
Phillip Island Winery
Phillip Island Winery is a great spot to wine and unwind. Situated among the vines this winery has a hard to beat wine tasting setting. Try a range of wines including their famous pinot noir and take in the views of the surrounding countryside. They also have share plates so it’s a great spot to spend an afternoon with mates or family.
The Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar
Beer and food at The Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar. On Phillip Island Rd, this place has house-brewed beers and a menu with pub meals to charcuterie boards. Laid back and family-friendly with live music, it’s a great spot for a night out after a Melbourne penguin tour.
Foodie Spots
Phillip Island has some hidden foodie gems.
Churchill Island Cafe
On the beautiful Churchill Island Heritage Farm this cafe has a menu full of fresh local produce. Breakfast or lunch, every dish is made with love. The cafe’s peaceful setting with views of the farm and bay is the perfect place to get away from it all.
A small winery with some of the island’s best handmade wine, Purple Hen Winery is a hidden gem to visit for a quiet wine tasting. The winery is famous for its award winning pinot noir and has a snug tasting room with views of the vineyard. A great place to chill out and taste local wines in a peaceful setting.
Family Dining
Phillip Island is a family-friendly destination with plenty of dining options for kids.
Cheeky Goose Cafe
On Chapel St in Cowes, Cheeky Goose Cafe is a family friendly spot with a big menu – burgers, pasta and more. The laid back vibe and kids menu make it a great spot for a family dinner. The cozy interior and friendly staff make it a warm and welcoming spot for all.
Big Wave Cafe
Big Wave Cafe in Newhaven is another family favourite. With a menu from breakfast to healthy lunches there’s something for everyone. The laid back vibe and friendly staff make it a great spot to grab a casual feed with the family.
FAQ
Where to eat seafood on Phillip Island?
Isola di Capri for Italian and San Remo Fisherman’s Co-op for fresh and fish and chips.
Where to eat with kids on Phillip Island?
Cheeky Goose Cafe and Big Wave Cafe.
Are there breweries on Phillip Island?
Ocean Reach Brewing and The Rusty Water Brewery Restaurant & Bar.
What’s the foodie experience?
Farm gate visits and food tours where you can taste local produce and learn about the island’s history.
Which wineries?
Phillip Island Winery and Purple Hen Winery.
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