The Great Ocean Road is a foodies’ heaven along one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. It not only has stunning views and coastlines but also local produce to please even the fussiest of eaters. Fresh seafood at Apollo Bay, gourmet cheeses and premium wines, the region has it all. Whether you’re in the bustle of Port Campbell and Port Fairy or the fertile farmland and ancient forests of the Otway Ranges, you’ll find a world of flavours that reflects the reconciliation and respect for the land of the Eastern Maar & Gunditjmara people.
A Foodie Adventure
Fresh Seafood
The Great Ocean Road coastline is renowned for its fresh seafood, the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op is a must visit. Rock lobsters (or crayfish) and prawns are local faves, often featured in modern dishes and pub classics. Try the Gummy shark, a favourite for fish and chips in the area. Grilled, in salads or as part of a seafood platter these ocean goodies are the taste of the region’s local produce.
Where to:
The Lobster Shack (Apollo Bay): Near the harbour, this is the real deal: fresh lobsters and prawns for those who want to indulge in the best local seafood.
The Surf Club Restaurant (Lorne): Overlooking the ocean, this restaurant has stunning views and a menu featuring local seafood and craft beer, a must do.
Artisanal Cheeses
Cheese lovers will find heaven along the Great Ocean Road, several artisanal producers make gourmet cheeses from the region’s green pastures. From soft and creamy to sharp and aged, these cheeses are the region’s fertile farmland and commitment to quality. Don’t miss the chance to taste the unique flavours from local dairies paired with cool climate wines from nearby vineyards.
Where to:
Apollo Bay Cheese Shop: A must for cheese lovers, with artisanal cheeses to match the local wines.
Childers Cove Cheese Company: Handcrafted cheeses, gourmet goodies for the fussiest of eaters.
Wines
The Great Ocean Road has several cool climate wine regions, the Henty wine region produces Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and sparkling. The vineyards here benefit from the coastal town’s cool breezes and fertile soils resulting in elegant and complex wines. Try the Grampians Wine region or visit local wineries to taste this region.
Where to:
Colac Estate (Colac): Winery, spirits and truffle tastings.
St. Anne’s Estate (Warrnambool): Wines and cheese.
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
The Great Ocean Road’s farmland is bursting with fresh fruits and vegetables, with seasonal produce available at local markets and roadside stalls. From Otway Blueberries to leafy greens and avocados, the fresh produce here is all about sustainable and organic farming. You can also visit the Otway Harvest Trail to see the best of the region’s produce.
Where to Get:
Apollo Bay Markets (Seasonal): A busy market with fresh food, including locally grown veggies, fruits and goodies.
Lorne Organic Gardens: Organic produce for a picnic or dinner.
Craft Beverages
In addition to wine, the Great Ocean Road has a growing craft beverage scene. From the Forrest Brewing Company’s handcrafted beers to the Otway Estate – Brewery’s one-off brews, there’s something for beer lovers. Whisky enthusiasts can taste it at the Timboon Rail Shed Distillery or the Otway Whisky Distillery, where a range of spirits awaits.
Where to Get:
Forrest Brewing Company: A micro-brewery with beers brewed on-site, surrounded by the Otway Ranges.
Otway Whisky Distillery (Lorne): Small batch whiskies, a visitor experience.
Specialty Products
The region’s artisans don’t just stop at the usual stuff. You can also find specialty products like olive oils, jams and chocolates. The Otway Harvest Trail is the way to go to see these, with stops at local producers like Gorge Chocolates for loads of chocolate and hands-on Chocolate Discovery Classes. You can also taste gourmet preserves made from fresh seasonal fruit.
Where to Get:
The Olive Grove (Apollo Bay): Olive oils are available for any occasion.
Gorge Chocolates: Everything.
Gourmet Coffee and Baked Goods
The Great Ocean Road has many seaside cafes and bakeries serving gourmet coffee and fresh baked goods. Whether you need a quick snack or a lazy brunch, the region’s bakeries have a range of sweet and savoury treats. Many of these places use organic ingredients and local produce, so every bite is full of flavour.
Where to Get:
Bay Leaf Café (Apollo Bay): Coffee and homemade pastries for a lazy morning.
The Bakery (Lorne): Artisanal bread and sweet things, a local icon.
Foodie Itineraries
Apollo Bay
Start in Apollo Bay, a foodie’s heaven and beautiful coastal town. Begin the day at the Apollo Bay Fishermen’s Co-Op, where you can taste the freshest seafood straight from the boat. Try the famous fish and chips or a seafood platter with local catches like calamari, scallops and abalone. Then head to the Apollo Bay Cheese Shop. This little shop has a great selection of local cheeses to enjoy with a glass of local wine. Try some of their award winners and take some home.
For brunch or coffee stop Bay Leaf Café. This café is famous for its artisan bread and pastries and also serves organic coffee and freshly squeezed juices. Seasonal menu features local ingredients, salads, sandwiches and decadent desserts.
Lorne
Then head to Lorne, a beach town with an arts scene and foodie heaven. Start with a meal at The Surf Club Restaurant & Bar. Modern menu featuring fresh local produce and seafood. Enjoy with a craft beer or glass of local wine on the deck and take in the ocean views.
After lunch, walk through the Lorne Organic Gardens, a community project showcasing sustainable gardening. Here you can wander through various plots of organic fruit, vegetables and herbs. A peaceful spot to relax and learn about organic gardening. For some adventure, head to Erskine Falls, a 30 metre waterfall in the rainforest. The short walk to the falls is worth it for the views and the cool mist of the falling water.
And the Otway Junction Restaurant & Café has a menu to match. Gourmet burgers to seafood platters and everything in between.
Port Campbell
Keep eating in Port Campbell, a pretty village with stunning coastal views and foodie heaven. Start at the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse, where you can try handcrafted beers brewed on-site. Tasting paddles have a range of beers, from light ales to stouts, that are all made with local ingredients. Pair it with a meal from their menu, which has pub classics with a modern twist.
For seafood lovers, you must visit one of the local eateries—a seafood extravaganza with freshly caught rock lobster, prawns and mussels. If you’re here in March, don’t miss Crayfest, the annual celebration of the rock lobster season with food stalls, live music and family-friendly activities.
Before you go, visit the Timboon Rail Shed Distillery. This boutique distillery is famous for its award-winning whiskies and liqueurs. Please take a tour and learn about the art of distilling or indulge in a decadent dessert like their whisky-infused ice cream. Another local treasure is the Childers Cove Cheese Company, where you can taste and buy artisanal cheeses made from local milk. It’s the perfect ending to your foodie journey.
Plan your day trip Great Ocean Road and make the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse your first stop. Enjoy fresh beer, tasty meals, and scenic surroundings!
Warrnambool & Port Fairy
End your trip in the historic towns of Warrnambool and Port Fairy, where food and culture are waiting. Start at St. Anne’s Vineyards in Warrnambool, which is famous for its wines and vineyard views—wine tasting and discovering the many wines of the region, from whites to reds.
For a more relaxed meal, go to one of Port Fairy’s beachside cafes. Here you can have Greek food and fresh seafood like chargrilled octopus and local mussels. Many of these cafes have outdoor seating so you can eat with a view of the harbour and the sound of the sea.
FAQ
How do I get to taste the local produce along the Great Ocean Road?
Are there food festivals along the Great Ocean Road?
What to eat along the Great Ocean Road?
Family friendly dining?
Can I buy it to take home?
Articles about Great Ocean Road
