Frankston is full of great places to chill and dine →

With a waterfront to be envied, the City of Greater Frankston is a remarkable gateway to the Mornington Peninsula. Its abundant selection of major shopping retailers, entertainment precincts and world-class restaurants, bars and cafes ensure you’ll be coming back for more. Treat yourself to waterfront dining along the shoreline, or experience the lively nightlife and edgy eateries. After a decadent meal, meander through the area to be inspired by the sculptures and street art. 

It's always a hive of activity with markets, family fun events, and golf courses. Get back to nature by exploring Seaford Wetlands, Langwarrin Flora and Fauna Reserve, and Cruden Farm.  Culture and community are at the core of Frankston and its surrounds, so make a point to visit Frankston Arts Centre and the McClelland Sculpture Park+Gallery. Stretch your legs on the landmark bridge at the Frankston Waterfront and wander along the Kananook Creek walking trail. Take in the fresh salty air with a beach walk before a visit to the variety of eateries, bars, breweries and distilleries tucked down side streets in the industrial areas. 

From Korean to European to modern Asian and Australian cuisines, the streets are dotted with dining choices just waiting to be enjoyed. This ever-changing city by the bay is home to award-winning restaurants that deliver international flavours and urban-edge cafe creators who provide contemporary and adventurous dining alternatives for foodie fanatics. 

Greater Frankston flawlessly blends city living with bush and bay. It’s a city with a heart of diversity, with its arts, culture and history destined to enchant and amuse all ages. Now it’s your turn to find out what this vibrant waterfront destination can offer you.

Click below to check out Frankston’s best.

38 South Bar Café Beach Cafe Seaford Ceylon Girl’s Café & Bar Flourish Café Frankston Arts Centre Frankston Brewhouse Gelato Unou Geonbae Frankston Herbert’s Corner Store Hotel Lona Iron River Bar and Grill Le Feu Signature Frankston Mr Frankie Nature Café Bar One Pear Tree Ordain Bistro & Bar. Ritchies Frankston Ritchies Towerhill Round About Café That Spirited Lot Distillers The Grand Frankston The Hop Shop Two Boys One Beagle and a Coffee Shop Vero Pasta + Wine Yo My Goodness Frankston

38 South Bar Café

Metres from the Seaford sand and station, 38 South Bar Café is a family-run establishment that marries the easygoing spirit of the coast with a forward-thinking culinary approach.

Striking a balance between contemporary design and welcoming warmth, the restaurant’s aesthetics and vibe encourage guests to settle in and unwind. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it's a space where sandy feet are as welcome as dressed-up diners, reflecting the versatility of its offering.

At the heart of 38 South is a menu that dances between modern Australian café fare and Mediterranean-influenced dishes. Vegetarians and vegans aren't an afterthought here; innovative plant-based dishes stand shoulder to shoulder with their carnivorous counterparts. Signature dishes like the chilli eggs have garnered a following, while daily-baked treats tempt even the most disciplined diners. Naturally, the coffee is exceptional.

Open daily for breakfast and lunch, with dinner service Wednesday to Sunday during warmer months, the kitchen team enjoys pushing gastronomic boundaries while honouring local produce.

Behind the bar, a curated selection of local craft beers, regional wines and artisanal spirits showcase the best of the area's producers. The cocktail list dazzles with inventive creations alongside perfected classics like espresso martinis. It's an ideal spot for a post-swim refresher or a leisurely evening of tasting and chatting.

38 South has also made its mark as a function venue, hosting intimate gatherings to larger celebrations. The flexibility of the space, combined with tailored menus, has made it a popular choice to celebrate by the sea.

In a region not short on dining options, 38 South stands out by offering a genuine experience that captures the essence of urban coastal living. Here, exceptional food meets an unhurried seaside spirit, making every visit feel like time has slowed down.

Opening hours: daily 7am-4pm

38 South Bar Café

1/131 Nepean Highway, Seaford

P: 9024 0138

www.38southseaford.com.au

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Beach Cafe Seaford

With a steaming cup of expertly brewed coffee in hand, the lucky customers of Beach Cafe Seaford enjoy one of the best views in Melbourne through floor-to-ceiling windows that look across the bay. The cafe’s stunning foreshore location offers casual dining with friendly staff and an ever-changing menu featuring daily specials.

Beach Cafe Seaford’s wide-ranging selection caters to both dine-in patrons and those seeking takeaway. For breakfast, indulge in decadent sweet dishes like crepes or waffles, healthy bites such as chia, flax and granola, or savoury classics including eggs benedict and roasted mushrooms with feta. The choices expand to feature lunch offerings like burgers, gyros, vegan-friendly vegetable dishes, and seafood specialties. Visitors can also enjoy club sandwiches and other portable options, perfect to enjoy on the sandy shore.

For those with a sweet tooth, there’s a tempting array of cakes and muffins, as well as handmade gelato from sister shop Gelato Unou that is perfect for a beachside treat. In summer, the cafe will reopen its kiosk, allowing beachgoers to grab a juice or sandwich to enjoy in the casual outdoor area without changing out of their swimwear.

Beach Cafe Seaford welcomes guests seven days a week, 365 days a year, from 8am to 4pm. This consistency is a point of pride, ensuring both locals and tourists can always rely on the cafe being open, even through winter. Whether patrons choose to dine inside, lounge on the spacious outdoor deck or grab a takeaway to enjoy on the sand, they'll find themselves immersed in the tranquillity of Seaford’s coastline. It’s a rare beachfront destination that invites visitors to pause, breathe the sea air and escape the bustle of everyday life.

Opening hours: daily 8am-4pm; check website for summer trading hours

Beach Cafe Seaford

10N Nepean Highway, Seaford

P: 8774 0470

beachcafeseaford.com.au

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Ceylon Girl’s Café & Bar

In a quiet pocket of Skye Rd in Frankston, Ceylon Girl’s Café & Bar is a culinary beacon, with its eye-catching façade and welcoming interior. It’s the go-to destination for authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, luring food enthusiasts from every corner of Melbourne.

At the helm is Angela Lord, the eponymous 'Ceylon girl' and culinary mastermind. Her radiant smile and passion infuse every aspect of the café, ensuring each visit is both a mouth-watering meal and a memorable experience. The menu is a journey through Sri Lankan and Burgher traditions, featuring such classics as hoppers, kottu, biryani and lamprais. Each dish is crafted from scratch using premium ingredients and Angela's homemade spice blends.

Ceylon Girl's has extended its Wednesday night buffet to Saturdays, offering seatings from 5.30-8.30pm to ensure a comfortable dining experience and avoid overcrowding. On one Saturday evening each month, live music accompanies the buffet. And for daytime diners, a new lunch buffet provides a taste of Sri Lanka on Fridays and Saturdays.

The bar has also evolved, with an impressive selection of Sri Lankan spirits inspiring tempting cocktail creations. For customers preferring to dine at home, there are several delivery options, with ordering directly through the cafe’s website providing the best value. The catering services are in high demand, with flexible arrangements for functions any day of the week. Whether you need food, bar service or both, the friendly team can tailor their offerings to suit your event.

The café accommodates different dining preferences, with its cosy interior seating 50 and a sunny 16-seat outdoor area. As business flourishes, there are plans for expansion on the horizon, promising even more opportunities for patrons to experience the delights of Ceylon Girl’s Café & Bar.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday 9.30am-8.30pm

Ceylon Girl’s Café & Bar

16 Skye Rd, Frankston

P: 0412 383 252

www.ceylongirlscafe.com.au

INSTA: ceylongirls_cafebar

Flourish Café

A short stroll from Sweetwater Creek in Frankston South, Flourish Café has been welcoming customers for 16 years. Owners Maree and Bernie Hutchins are proud to lead a dedicated team who share their commitment to exceptional service and passion for making guests feel at home.

Opening the business in 2008, the couple’s vision was to create a cosy place where people could meet to enjoy traditional favourites and fresh innovative dishes from a delicious handcrafted menu. Their dream has been realised, the licensed café amassing a loyal following of customers who love its family atmosphere and great food.

Late risers appreciate Flourish Café’s all-day brekkie menu, featuring eggs your way on toast, buttermilk pancakes, brekkie salad, omelette, and the café’s top-selling big breakfast with all the extras.

Mouth-watering hot and cold options for lunch include lasagne, quiches and frittatas, all served with salad. Rolls and sandwiches made using fresh ingredients are popular takeaway items. A new menu was launched in October.

As the perfect pick-me-up, slices, cakes and sweet muffins can be paired with a hot Genovese coffee any time.

Flourish Café’s charming outdoor dining area is popular with the locals. It’s the spot to lap up the sunshine during the day, while at night there’s a party vibe in the air.

On Thursdays the café hosts pasta or parma nights, with complimentary wine or beer. Themed dinners are scheduled throughout summer, exploring cuisines from around the world. Indian, Afghan and Greek nights are already proving a hit, so check the website for details.

Celebrating a milestone? Flourish has high teas on selected Sundays and is available for functions on request. For freshness, fun and variety, Flourish Café is the place to be.

Opening hours: Friday-Wednesday 8am-3pm; Thursday 8am-3pm and 5-9pm; check website for events

Flourish Cafe    

44 Norman Ave, Frankston South   

P: 9787 8489; 0425 753 152

www.flourishcafe.com.au   

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Frankston Brewhouse

Since 2021, Frankston Brewhouse has been making a name for itself as the suburb's very own craft brewery and restaurant, serving up a distinctive experience in the local culinary landscape.

This industrial-chic venue, founded by four friends with a passion for great beer, features a state-of-the-art three-vessel brewhouse where they craft their signature “socially approachable” beers. The range includes five core brews, such as the Harold Hop IPA and Ambassador Pale Ale, alongside a rotating selection of limited releases that showcase the brewers' creativity and skill.

While the beer takes centre stage, Frankston Brewhouse's culinary offerings are far from an afterthought. The seasonal menu offers refined beer food designed for sharing, with dishes that are familiar yet elevated, and thoughtfully created to complement the house-brewed beers. Their famous hot wings are a must-try, while generous grazing platters cater perfectly to groups.

The drink selection extends beyond their own creations, featuring a hand-picked list of Australian wines, as well as Mornington Peninsula spirits used to perfection in cocktails. For non-drinkers, there's a range of alternatives, including expertly made coffee.

From Thursday through Sunday, the venue pulses with energy, with performances by up-and-coming musicians and regular trivia, music bingo, drag bingo or comedy shows. The last Saturday of each month offers brewery tours for those keen to know more about the craft.

Can't get enough of their brews? Grab some takeaway beers for home. And if you love the venue's atmosphere, the brewhouse can host your next function. For off-site celebrations, their mobile taproom trailer brings the vibe to private events.

With its commitment to quality brews, delicious food and community spirit, Frankston Brewhouse has cemented its place as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to savour the flavours of Frankston.

Opening hours: Thursday 4-10pm; Friday 3-11pm; Saturday noon-11pm; Sunday noon-6pm

Frankston Brewhouse

10 New St, Frankston

P: 9001 0010

www.frankstonbrewhouse.com.au

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Gelato Unou

Gelato enthusiasts from across Melbourne are making the journey to Seaford, drawn by the promise of artisanal creations at Gelato Unou. The name itself is a clever play on words; while ‘uno’ traditionally means ‘one’ in Italian, the added ‘u’ at the end transforms it into a customer-centric message: “You (u) are number one.”

Third-generation master gelato chef Piero hails from Sicily, where his family have been perfecting the craft since 1953. He brings authentic Italian expertise to every scoop in this seaside hotspot. Using premium Victorian dairy, seasonal fruits and select Italian ingredients, Piero and his team conjure up an ever-evolving array of more than 200 gelato and sorbet flavours.

The menu explores both the familiar and the unexpected. Timeless favourites like vanilla and chocolate are complemented by more adventurous options such as pistachio and zabaione. Plant-based palates are well catered for with an impressive selection of vegan gelatos and cakes.

The newly expanded shop opposite Seaford Pier features a striking design that combines contemporary flair with Italian charm. A bold red and white striped shopfront draws attention, while inside playful accents echo the exterior. Funky turquoise stools paired with sleek tables invite patrons to savour their frozen delights at leisure in the cool interior or on the sun-drenched terrace. The delectable creations are also available as takeaway, or for delivery through Uber Eats.

Beyond the signature gelato, temptations include frozen yoghurt, Dutch pancakes, cannoli, smoothies and milkshakes, and bespoke celebration gelato cakes: multi-tiered masterpieces bursting with indulgent flavours and perfect for any special occasion.

As visitors enjoy their artisanal treats, they experience the delicious embodiment of Gelato Unou’s ethos: ‘From Sicily to Seaford.’ It’s a destination worth the trip no matter the distance.

Opening hours: daily until late

 

Gelato Unou

125A Nepean Highway, Seaford

P: 0481 700 675

www.gelatounou.com.au

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Geonbae Frankston

Geonbae is a Korean barbecue restaurant that delivers special dining well worth seeking out. This lively and bustling eatery is a popular destination year-round, and it’s easy to see why. From the moment you sit down, the tableside barbecue grills set the stage for a unique and interactive meal.

Eating here is about more than delicious food; it is an experience. Enjoy the thrill of grilling premium cuts of meat at your own table, savouring bold flavours and sharing good times with friends and family. If you need assistance with grilling your own food, the friendly and helpful staff are happy to oblige, ensuring everyone feels comfortable even if it is their first time at a Korean barbecue.

One of the signature dishes of Korean barbecue food is beef bulgogi. This iconic dish has a history as rich as its flavour. Marinated in soy sauce, sugar, garlic and sesame oil then served with fresh ingredients such as onions, mushrooms and a side of kimchi, this mouth-watering dish captures the essence of Korean barbecue.

Other favourites include the succulent pork belly and fried chicken, with vegetarian, pescatarian and gluten-free options also available.  Geonbae is fully licensed with a range of beer, wine and cocktails; the refreshing soju cocktail made with the Korean spirit is a stand-out.

Geonbae’s new outdoor dining area, with barbecue tables on a covered deck, is a perfect setting for a sunny day. For those seeking variety and value, the all-you-can-eat Wednesdays are a must.

Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday 10am-9pm; Friday-Saturday 10am-9.30pm

Geonbae Frankston

4 Kananook Creek Blvd, Frankston

P: 7023 4144

www.geonbae.au

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Hotel Lona

Just minutes from Frankston’s shoreline, beach-fresh air mingles with the aroma of expertly curated seasonal fare at Hotel Lona. This lively venue offers a diverse dining experience that includes casual bites and upscale meals, and successfully blends different atmospheres across its multi-level space.

The full-service dining room, next to the public bar, has elevated its offering under a new head chef. Featuring upmarket bistro-style dishes like chicken provencal, prawn linguine, and porterhouse alongside traditional pub fare, the menu proudly showcases Peninsula produce. With at least 10 weekly specials, there's always something new.

For those seeking a more laid-back vibe, the public bar provides casual dining with bi-fold windows opening onto the street and sports on screen. It's an ideal spot to enjoy quality wines, cocktails and light bites.

The crown jewel of Hotel Lona is undoubtedly its roof top. Designed for year-round use, it’s a sun-drenched oasis in summer and a cosy, enclosed space in winter. On weekends, the atmosphere buzzes with live music, making it the perfect spot for a long lunch. As the sun sinks below the horizon, watch the space transform from lively dining into a late-night Rooftop Club with DJs and a packed dance floor.

For special occasions, the private dining room on the top level accommodates up to 25 seated guests, with flexible catering options available.

Hotel Lona's commitment to live music shines through, particularly in summer, with performances up to five nights a week. The venue also hosts various events throughout the year, from Christmas in July to special bottomless menu offerings.

With its modern, artistic fit-out and prime location, Hotel Lona offers a dining experience that's simultaneously sophisticated and friendly. Whether you're after a weekday lunch, weeknight dinner or a weekend catch-up, this favourite delivers on all fronts.

Download the free Lona Loyalty app to access exclusive deals.

Opening hours: Sunday-Thursday noon-1.30am; Friday and Saturday noon-3am; closed Monday

Hotel Lona

473 Nepean Highway, Frankston

P. 9123 0286

www.hotellona.com.au

E: hotellona@lona.com.au

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Iron River Bar and Grill

Iron River Bar and Grill is a family-owned and run restaurant in Frankston. Owners Rachel and Dwayne are great supporters of the community, with Iron River now featuring on Frankston’s own Monopoly board, cementing this place as a go-to dining destination for families, groups and casual catch-ups.

Stepping inside the restaurant you are greeted by a warm, cosy and moody atmosphere, enhanced by the soft ambient lighting, with teal velvet or soft beige leather chairs perfect for relaxing in as you enjoy your meal. The decorative cow skull sculptures along the wall remind you of the real reason most people are here: for the amazing steaks.

Serving Australian steaks with American flare, Iron River Bar and Grill has taken inspiration from many corners of the US and combined them with some homegrown favourites to create a unique menu that really does have something for everyone. It specialises in large, juicy portions of steak, pork and chicken. The Jacks Creek Wagyu beef is tender and tasty, with an incredible marble rating of 9+, and the 500g ribeye is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. 

The legendary king parma is a longstanding favourite, always cooked to perfectly crisp perfection. While meat is undeniably the star, the sauces are also impressive. Choose from a wide range including Tennessee, ranch, buffalo, red wine jus or blue cheese sauce, to name but a few.

In addition to the comprehensive range of steaks, the menu also features other American classics, such as New York-style buffalo wings, Tennessee glazed ribs, Southern chicken dinner and hearty burgers. If you prefer a seafood option, the melt-in-your-mouth calamari is tantalisingly good. Unlike most steakhouses, vegetarians are also catered for here as more than a cursory afterthought. The pear and rocket salad is a delight, served with pomegranate, feta cheese, sweet potato and honey lemon dressing. All the meals are big on taste and quality, with generous portions that are also great value for money and won’t require you to own a string of hotels to purchase. With a small but dedicated crew led by head chef Ashi Singh, the kitchen staff pride themselves on making everything in house, and you can really taste the difference.

Iron River does a great coffee too, using Molotov beans from Revolution Roasters for a brew that really hits the spot. Lunch covers a wide range of options, from a comforting mac and cheese to the light and zingy cilantro and lime steak salad.

With a new outdoor area and bar seating, Iron River Bar and Grill is also perfect for relaxing on sunny days and balmy evenings. Grab your friends and head across for happy hour every week from 4-6pm Monday to Friday, and 3-5pm on weekends.

Iron River Bar and Grill offers friendly service, great value and a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s a steak destination where you can always bank on a winning experience.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday noon-late, Saturday-Sunday noon-late

Iron River Bar and Grill

435-437 Nepean Highway, Frankston

P: 8765 2498

www.ironriver.com.au

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INSTA: ironriverbarandgrill

Le Feu Signature Frankston

Le Feu Signature Frankston, the largest of the eight Le Feu venues, provides a rare amalgamation of dining and event catering that is suitable for a wide range of occasions, from intimate dinners to grand celebrations. Housed in a building with a rich 60-year history, Le Feu Frankston is a site of culinary and cultural significance.

At Le Feu Frankston, the menu is grounded in the mastery of blending Vietnamese cooking traditions inspired by French culinary finesse. Favourite dishes include the exquisite roasted duck curry and the crispy pork belly rice bowl, both of which involve careful and deliberate cooking techniques to bring out a rich complexity of flavours.  For a luxurious and unforgettable dining experience, try the stand-out sher Wagyu beef curry made with premium Wagyu beef slow-cooked for eight hours and immersed in a rich, aromatic curry sauce. Staying true to the ethos of Le Feu, the Frankston menu remains dedicated to being wholly gluten-free, continuing to win hearts by catering to all dietary needs.

What distinguishes the Frankston location from its Mornington counterpart is its spacious layout, which is perfect for hosting events, as it offers more room for larger gatherings while still maintaining the warm and welcoming vibe Le Feu is known for.

Le Feu Frankston harmonises the historical charm of its location with the innovative and sophisticated culinary offerings of chef Kevin Nguyen and his team. Each meal feels a little like a journey through Vietnam, creating memorable and adventurous dining occasions right here on the Mornington Peninsula.

At Le Feu Signature Frankston, customers are welcome to BYO (bring your own) drinks.

It also offers a drinks menu with a variety of alcoholic beverages, including wine and beer.

And don’t forget there’s also a kids’ play area.

In all the restaurants, Le Feu celebrates quality, tradition and heart, making each restaurant a facet of the vibrant Le Feu group.

Opening hours: daily 11.30am-9pm

Le Feu Signature Frankston

315 Nepean Highway, Frankston

P: 0423 015 789

www.lefeu.com.au/restaurant/le-feu-frankston

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Nature Café Bar

Colourful, creative and super healthy foods that are a delight for all your senses are on the menu at Nature Bar in Frankston. Nature Café Bar follows three principles when preparing their meals: they must be healthy, look beautiful and taste delicious. You can find a wide range of fresh vegan and vegetarian dishes for all-day breakfast and lunch served in the bright and relaxed family-friendly restaurant.

Choose from a range of options including Buddha bowls, acai bowls, burgers and fries, tacos, pancakes, big breakfasts, salads and much more. With a seasonal approach to the menu, meals reflect what is freshest and in season. In cooler months the winter roast salad with roasted veggies, feta and lentils is healthy and filling, while the mandarin salad is a riot of colour and a light yet satisfying dish perfect for summer. The elegant gluten-free treats provide a cleaner and healthier way of enjoying sweet delights without dieting. The passionfruit cheesecake is a taste sensation.

The range of refreshing and delicious drinks is extensive, including smoothies, cold-pressed juices , and even cocktails. The hot drinks range from the best coffee and sticky chai in town to the famous blue latte made with blue spirulina and secret spices. It is one of the most beautiful drinks you are likely to see.

Nature Café Bar is fully licensed and a great spot for large groups and private functions. Sink into the large velvet sofas or gather for relaxed chats around the wooden tables. Nature Café Bar is the perfect place to enjoy meal in a fun and happy atmosphere where the food tastes as good as it looks.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 8am-3.30pm; Saturday-Sunday 9am-3.30pm

Nature Café Bar

1-3 Thompson St, Frankston

P: 9068 5219

www.naturecafebar.com.au

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One Pear Tree

Frankston's dining scene has a stand-out player in One Pear Tree. It’s a cafe that deftly balances the old-world elegance of its beautifully restored weatherboard house on Nepean Highway with a modern monochrome aesthetic and adds exceptional food and beverages with fresh, seasonal ingredients and innovative flavour combinations.

For those craving a stellar breakfast, highlights include halloumi fritters, truffle mushrooms or the indulgent signature dish of saffron poached pear with homemade granola, fresh berries and coconut yoghurt, as well as freshly baked cakes and pastries. For lunch, warm chicken salad or beef burger and chips offer satisfying noon options, while Asian-style calamari salad provides a lighter meal without compromising on taste.

As the sun sets, One Pear Tree transforms with a newly-introduced dinner service from 5-9pm Thursday through Sunday. The kitchen fires up with seasonal creations like slow-cooked lamb shoulder or handmade pasta dishes.

Coffee-lovers can rest assured that One Pear Tree baristas are masters of their craft, consistently serving up perfectly brewed cups. For those inclined towards something stronger, a curated selection of premium wines, beers, ciders and spirits awaits.

Whether you're after a quiet corner or a lively gathering spot, the versatile spaces have you covered. Enjoy the snug interior, with a crackling fireplace on cooler days. When the sun's out, claim a spot in the courtyard, where dogs are welcome, complete with gourmet treats that'll have tails wagging.

Before you leave, peruse the giftware section, showcasing a mix of original art, homewares, jewellery and plants. With its proximity to the beach and Kananook Creek walking track, One Pear Tree is the ideal spot to refuel after a leisurely stroll and enjoy one of Frankston's finest culinary hotspots.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 7am-3.30pm; Saturday and Sunday 8am-3.30pm; dinner Thursday-Sunday 5-9pm

One Pear Tree

372 Nepean Highway, Frankston

P: 9781 0077

www.onepeartree.com

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Ordain Bistro & Bar

With his distinctive beard and warm demeanour, owner-chef Dylan Murray is hard to miss and easy to remember. At Ordain Bistro & Bar, he’s created something special by transporting Melbourne’s ‘hidden-gem wine bar’ vibe to Seaford.

His vision comes to life in a space that’s luxurious but not intimidating. Dark floors complement wooden tables, with leather and velvet seating inviting lingering conversations under soft lighting. The year-round outdoor area is dog-friendly, offering wind protection and heaters for cooler months and capturing sea breezes in summer.

Ordain's lunch menu showcases Dylan’s culinary creativity. The star is the new barbecue set box, a sophisticated take on the bento box concept. It offers a choice of proteins with sides like rice, chips, or seasonal vegetables, accompanied by housemade pickles and freshly baked bread. The wine list is equally impressive, featuring top-notch drops from around the globe that you won’t find anywhere else nearby.

Special themed nights include Monday’s steak lover’s paradise, where diners can customise their perfect plate from a selection of cuts, sauces and sides. Wednesdays celebrate pasta, with a build-your-own pasta night. Sundays take on a festive air with Sunday School: a weekly bottomless brunch that’s less about learning and more about lounging with French wine, prosecco and artisanal grazing platters.

The restaurant’s event calendar keeps pace with the seasons. Oktoberfest brings Bavarian flair, while a Halloween degustation offers a multi-course journey through flavours familiar and mysterious. As the year winds down, Ordain presents a traditional Christmas spread and caps off the calendar with a New Year’s Eve celebration.

Open six days, Ordain caters to quick post-beach bites, relaxed lunches and special occasion dining. It’s Seaford’s perfectly poured glass: familiar, yet full of discovery.

 

Opening hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 3-9pm; Friday-Saturday 11.30am-late; Sunday 11.30am-6pm; Tuesday closed

Ordain Bistro & Bar

8 Station St, Seaford

P: 8712 3396

www.ordainbistro.com.au

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Round About Café

Sitting opposite a picturesque park that forms the roundabout it’s named after, Frankston’s popular Round About Café is a bustling neighbourhood spot.

Families and friends catching up, people tapping away on laptops, and even furry companions lounging at their owners’ feet all find their place here. The outdoor area is perfect for soaking up sunshine, while inside offers a light-filled, laid-back feel.

The menu here is seriously satisfying. Take the Mediterranean breakfast: it's a proper feed with two poached eggs, grilled halloumi, crisp chorizo, portobello mushroom, sliced avocado, poached chickpea and sugo, and a generous serve of olive bread and hummus. The fluffy Round About fritters are another stand-out, made with zucchini, corn and pea, served on corn salsa and cashew puree with a substantial balsamic-dressed salad.

For those with a sweet craving, the waffles are a must. Topped with a riot of fresh berries, passionfruit coulis, toasted almond flakes, maple syrup and a scoop of ice cream, they're the perfect excuse for dessert any time of day.

On Friday nights in summer the café stays open late, serving up some of the best burgers in town. Whether you're in the mood for a classic beef, a spicy chicken, or one of their ever-changing veggie creations, there's a burger here with your name on it. Pair it with a local craft beer or a cocktail and you've got the ideal start to your weekend.

If you need to feed a crowd or hire a venue, Round About's catering has you covered for all occasions big and small.

From morning caffeine hits through to a laid-back dinner, Round About Café nails the essentials with great food every day of the week.

Opening hours: Monday-Thursday 7am-3pm; Friday 7am-late; Saturday-Sunday 8am-3pm

Round About Café

1/19 Shaxton Circle, Frankston 

P: 9785 6091 

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The Grand Frankston

The Grand in Frankston is a gateway to the Mornington Peninsula and an institution in its own right, providing a much-loved dining and entertainment experience. Open seven days a week, this family-friendly venue is the perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy great food, a relaxed atmosphere and live entertainment.

The Grand's bistro serves lunch and dinner every day in a warm and inviting setting. The talented team of chefs have crafted a menu that caters to all tastes, providing high-quality dishes at affordable prices. Whether you're craving such classic pub fare as parmas, steaks, burgers, and fish and chips or something more adventurous such as nasi goreng, chicken scallopini or duck spring rolls, there’s something for everyone at The Grand. The $20 pot and parma and monthly drink specials ensure there are affordable dine-out options.

For sports enthusiasts, The Grand's Sports Bar is a favourite destination. Featuring a TAB with full betting facilities, including Keno, the bar is well-equipped to cater to punters and fans of all kinds. Large-screen TVs show live sports action via Fox Sports, including every game of the AFL season. The bar meals menu complements the sporting atmosphere, with options available for lunch and dinner every day. The relaxed and friendly environment makes it the perfect place to enjoy a drink, a bite to eat, and all the excitement of game day. Don’t miss out on key match-ups that you can watch live and loud. The Pegasus Rewards loyalty program further enhances the experience, offering members exclusive benefits and rewards including but not limited to Melbourne Racing Club race day passes, PLG venue vouchers and many more. 

The Grand knows how to keep the good times rolling. Happy hour runs Monday to Thursday from 4-6pm, featuring $6 schooners and house wine specials. Adding an extra layer of fun, The Grand offers the Spin the Wheel game during happy hour on Thursdays. Participants can earn raffle tickets with every happy hour purchase, or buy one for just $1, for a chance to win prizes in the 5pm and 6pm draws.

The Grand also hosts live music that transforms the venue into a vibrant nightlife spot. Gigs from popular local performers create an evening filled with tight grooves, catchy melodies and powerful vocals.

The Grand is also available for private functions, with a versatile room suitable for hosting a wide range of events from birthdays and engagements to Christmas parties, meetings and cocktail parties. With customisable food and beverage packages and a team of experienced staff dedicated to providing excellent customer service, The Grand ensures every event is memorable and seamless.

Whether you're looking for a casual lunch with friends, a place to watch the game or a venue for a special celebration, The Grand in Frankston has it all. With its delicious menu, lively sports bar, entertaining events, and warm hospitality, The Grand is the ultimate local hangout. 

Opening hours: venue from 10am daily; bistro from noon daily 

The Grand Frankston

499 Nepean Highway, Frankston

P: 9783 7388

www.grandhotelfrankston.com.au

FB: GrandHotelFrankston

INSTA: grandhotel.frankston

The Hop Shop

Frankston’s social drinks scene has been changed for the better since the establishment of The Hop Shop in 2020. This buzzing Playne St venue has brought craft beer brilliance to the area, creating a space where quality and camaraderie go hand in hand, rivalling the best big-city bars.

With 18 taps pouring a rotating cast of brews, The Hop Shop champions the underdogs of the beer world. Here you’ll find limited releases from passionate brewers alongside internationally recognised craft labels, each selected to challenge and delight your tastebuds. Can’t stay? Take your favourite beers home.

But don't let the name fool you – The Hop Shop isn’t just for the hop-heads. Wine enthusiasts can explore a list of local and organic drops, while spirit aficionados will appreciate the selection of whiskies, gins, vodkas and cocktails. Even teetotallers are catered for with an array of craft sodas and non-alcoholic options. The staff’s motto? "If it tastes good to you, it’s the right choice."

The food menu, a collaboration with Bang Bang in Mordialloc, reads like a greatest hits of Asian street fare. The slow-cooked sticky Korean brisket bao has achieved legendary status among regulars, while the Sichuan eggplant and Japanese fried chicken provide the perfect accompaniment to whatever’s in your glass.

Come winter, patrons huddle around the crackling fireplace, nursing complex ales and swapping stories. When the weather warms up, the beer garden comes into its own, with its adjustable roof ensuring comfort whether you're seeking sun or shade.

The Hop Shop defies easy categorisation – not quite a pub and not quite a wine bar. It’s where Frankston comes to discover new flavours, unwind after work, and celebrate the simple pleasure of a well-crafted drink in good company.

Opening hours: Tuesday 4pm-late; Wednesday-Sunday noon-late; Monday closed

The Hop Shop

26 Playne St, Frankston

P: 0405 137 969

www.thehopshop.com.au

FB: thehopshop

INSTA: thehopshopfrankston