Food and coffee innovators at top of the Peninsula

There’s a stretch of the Mornington Peninsula coastline that’s home to the sheltered beaches, vibrant beach boxes, rocky outcrops and remarkable cliffs of Mount Eliza, Mornington and Mount Martha. When the sun shines, so does this area’s foodie scene, with outdoor diners catching salty sea breezes as they savour a deluxe brunch or gourmet dinner at a seaside eatery. With so many cuisines to dazzle the senses, these beachside towns reign supreme with a cafe culture to be admired. 

Venture inland towards Moorooduc, Somerville and Tuerong to continue your foodie journey. Marvel at quality distilleries, laid-back breweries, unpretentious farm gates, award-winning fine food merchants, wine bars and first-rate wineries that will tantalise the tastebuds. Premium eateries complement a wide selection of wineries that provide tastings and grazing plates to complete your lazy afternoon. 

Stay a while and peruse boutique retail stores and gourmet fooderies through the main strips of these colourful suburbs. The industrial estates of Somerville and Mornington overflow with art, food and coffee-crafting innovators, while craft markets and art galleries can be discovered scattered throughout the area. 

Follow up your decadent meal with a visit to a bustling marina, golf course or Mornington Racecourse on race day. Attend a venue with live music, explore the Peninsula winery trail, or immerse yourself in the thriving emerald bushland with a walk at Devilbend Reservoir. This is the place where families gather, visitors connect and friends catch up – all while bonding over their love for food, outstanding hospitality and quality local produce.

Prepare to fall in love with this pocket of the Peninsula, where everything of excellence comes together to create the ultimate cosmopolitan seaside lifestyle tucked away in a world of its own. 

Click links below to explore some of the best places around.

Barrett Lane Sandwich Bar Biscottini Bütterken Bakery Chocolat of Mornington Coffee Traders Cptn Jack’s Devilbend Farm Beer Don’t Panic It’s Organic Fifty5 French Bakehouse Gods Kitchen Island Pasta Company La Cabra Le Feu Mornington Main Street Market Mornington Racecourse Market Mount Eliza Farmers’ Market Mr Velvet Ears Mr Vincenzo’s Mr. Jackson One Pear Tree Mornington Ouest France Peninsula Beverage Co. Peninsula Nut Co Ritchies Mt Eliza Ritchies Mt Martha Smokers Butchery Somerville Egg Farm Squires Loft Steeples Tadka Club The Rocks Mornington Tully’s Corner Via Battisti   Wildgrain Yo My Goodness Mornington Yumbah Seafarms Zambrero Mornington

Barrett Lane Sandwich Bar

The humble sandwich gets a makeover at Barrett Lane Sandwich Bar. From the classic to the creative, every sandwich is tried, tested and ticked for approval before making its way onto the menu. Owned and run by a family of foodies, this place is truly on top of its sandwich game.

Hidden behind Mornington’s Main St, Barrett Lane is committed to giving customers the sandwich fillings they already love and surprising them with exciting flavour combinations never before considered.  Using fresh, quality products, the business prepares as many of its core ingredients as possible in-house, including pickles, pastrami and roast beef.

With combos reminiscent of a New York deli, toasties prove to be among the greatest hits.  Varieties include the delicious tuna melt, the famous reuben, and the garlic mushroom and double cheese. If customers can’t find what they’re after on the menu, the helpful team are happy to oblige by making orders on request.

For a grab-and-go snack, Barrett Lane is popular with those on the move and is a convenient, healthy change from most other takeaway options. During the week, customers include tradies, retail and office workers, pairing their meal with a cold drink or a hot Revolution Roasters coffee. On Saturdays, the sandwich bar buzzes when sporting teams and families visit.

With parking close by, it’s so easy to get your sandwich fix at Barrett Lane.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8am-2.30pm; closed Sunday-Monday

Barrett Lane Sandwich Bar

1 Barrett Lane, Mornington

P: 5973 4313

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Biscottini

A stalwart of the Mornington cafe scene, Biscottini has been a favourite destination for a casual breakfast, brunch or lunch for more than 22 years. The longevity of the popular bistro is testament to the friendly service and fresh menu options guests can expect to enjoy all day every day.

Couples, families and friends, small groups or larger gatherings – everyone is welcome at Biscottini. The spacious, licensed bistro, with indoor and outdoor seating, is an easy place to relax.

Whether you’re in the mood for something light or your appetite is hearty, the menu is guaranteed to please. Many find it impossible to resist Biscottini’s signature big breakfast with all the trimmings – also available in a vegetarian option – while others prefer the delicious Bircher muesli, buttermilk pancakes with berries, or bacon with maple syrup.

Alongside traditional lunch options, including burgers and fish and chips that are perfect for both adults and kids, Biscottini is known for its mouthwatering reuben sandwich and salt and pepper calamari.

Add a spring to your step with a Grinders coffee. Biscottini’s baristas brew the rich-flavoured brand from morning to afternoon, sometimes adding a touch of coffee art to the milky foam. For a cold alternative, sample a freshly squeezed fruit juice or dairy or non-dairy smoothie, ideal for an energising pick-me-up.

Visit Biscottini today and learn firsthand why its regulars keep coming back.

Opening hours: daily 7am-3.30pm

Biscottini

157-159 Main St, Mornington

P: 5977 0617

www.biscottini.com.au

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Bütterken Bakery

Bread is revealed in a whole new light at Bütterken Bakery, proving exactly why it’s upheld at the forefront of German food culture.

The superior taste of the Mount Eliza bakery’s artisan bread, made using traditional methods and simple ingredients, has customers reviewing their relationship with bread and changing their shopping habits. No longer content with highly processed, flavourless supermarket loaves, they’ve made the switch to authentic Bütterken bread for the taste and for their health.

Bread at Bütterken Bakery is made using organic Australian flour. There are no fillers or additives in the product range, which includes organic wheat sourdough, 100 per cent wholegrain rye sourdough and wholegrain spelt sourdough. Nothing but flour, water and salt.

Not only does the Bütterken team share a close rapport with customers, the bakery’s owners genuinely care about the product quality. Anita and Hendrik know that close attention to the fermentation process improves the digestibility of bread. Those who try it are convinced, remarking how much better they feel after eating the bakery’s bread.

All products are made fresh on the premises and can be enjoyed at street-front tables or in the gorgeous light-filled covered courtyard at the rear, where windows reveal bakers at work.  Savoury favourites include pretzels – plain, buttered, or with cream cheese and chives – and sandwiches with assorted fillings; ham, mustard and pickles is a popular combination. Among the sweet offerings are seasonal fruit crumbles, Zimtschnecken (cinnamon scrolls), and Bienenstich (bee sting), a traditional German custard cream cake topped with honeyed almonds. Holiday treats include Stollen and gingerbread at Christmas and hot cross buns at Easter.

Discover what you’ve been missing – visit Bütterken today.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Friday 7.30am-4pm; Saturday 8am-2pm

Bütterken Bakery

Shop 2/54 Mount Eliza Way, Mount Eliza

P: 0494 105 718

www.butterkenbakery.com.au

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Chocolat of Mornington

Rainbow rows of macarons vying for attention alongside tempting cakes and pastries – a visit to Chocolat of Mornington is like being whisked away to Paris. Escape the everyday and make time to spoil yourself at the Peninsula’s famous French patisserie.

Here you’ll find the taste of France as authentic and as fresh as you can get, with all delicacies made daily on the premises by owner Ross Saunders – a French-trained pastry chef with decades of experience – and the talented Chocolat team.

Cheesy croque monsieurs, hearty handmade sausage rolls, and assorted baguettes and quiches, including vegetarian options, are each as popular as the next.

Chocolat’s reputation has been built on its croissants, escargots and Danishes, cakes by the slice and tarts for one. Regulars know they need to get in quick for one of the café’s famous doughnuts with classic jam, Nutella, or lemon meringue fillings.

It’s easy to grab a treat to go, but the friendly service and chic vibe of the café beckons customers to stay. Round marble-topped tables lend the cafe a distinctly French air. The sleek orange coffee machine indicates how seriously Chocolat takes its coffee; baristas brew hot Revolution Roasters all day, while cups and plates in matching citrus hues add a pop of colourful fun.

White cake boxes line the shelves, ready to transport made-to-order cakes. Chocolat’s range of celebration cakes features such favourites as hazelnut castel and passionfruit sunrise, and
much-loved classics including chocolate mud cake and strawberry cheesecake.

Once you’ve discovered it, Chocolat of Mornington is a secret you’ll want to share.

Opening hours: Tuesday-Saturday 8am-5pm; closed Sunday-Monday

Chocolat of Mornington

Shop 6/59 Barkly St, Mornington

P: 5976 4902

www.chocolatofmornington.com.au

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Coffee Traders

Stepping inside Coffee Traders’ hedge-fronted entrance feels like sneaking away to visit a much-loved neighbour where the coffee is always on and freshly made treats await your arrival. The charming café, just off Main St, has asserted its position at the forefront of Mornington’s coffee culture since entering the scene in the ‘90s.

Coffee Traders’ longevity is testament to the loyalty of its customers, who keep returning to experience the café’s inviting atmosphere, excellent service, tasty food and premium coffee.

A warm welcome is assured at Coffee Traders. The friendly staff thrive on happy exchanges, working together to maintain a cheery vibe in the café.  Their dedication to learning customers’ names and coffee preferences is one example of their commitment to personalised service. It shines through in other interactions too. Children are greeted with colouring sheets to occupy them as they sip babycinos or milkshakes. Dogs get the star treatment at outside tables, lapping up frothy puppuccinos.

Serious coffee aficionados find themselves constantly drawn back to the café on discovery of its flagship brand, Five Senses Coffee. Customers and baristas alike love this product, confident in the consistency of its superior taste. If you’re in the mood for something different, the café also offers a variety of non-coffee beverages, including specialty chai tea and vegan hot chocolate.

Dining in or grabbing a bite to take away, the menu offers a selection of fresh, locally made meals and snacks to satisfy all appetites. Popular items include delicious sandwiches and baguettes, Portuguese tarts and muffins.

Drop in soon and see for yourself why Coffee Traders has been a customer favourite for nearly 30 years.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 6am-3pm; Saturday and Sunday 7am-3pm

Coffee Traders

3 Blake St, Mornington

P: 5977 1177

www.coffeetradersmornington.com.au

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Cptn Jack’s

Head away from the main roads and drive towards one of the less well-known corners of Western Port to discover Cptn Jack’s, one of the Peninsula’s best-kept secrets. This restaurant at Yaringa Boat Harbour is the kind of waterside venue it can be hard to find these days, marrying the whimsical charm of the seafaring life with the simplicity and elegance of Nantucket style.

Whether visiting as a stopover to or from the city or seeking it out as a special destination, this hidden treasure is worth the detour. The view from Cptn Jack’s alone is a feast for the eyes, with stunning vistas over the working harbour where boats drift in and out against a backdrop of natural beauty, including an adjacent national park and serene mangroves.

‘Work like a Captain, play like a Pirate’ is the ethos at Cptn Jack’s, and it shines through in its unpretentious and wholesome atmosphere. The newly refurbished interiors strike a balance between relaxed and sophisticated, creating a setting that is both welcoming and refined.

The Mediterranean-inspired menu of Cptn Jack’s emphasises fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The culinary offerings include a range of shared plates and abundant seafood dishes, crafted to showcase the rich bounty of the region. Each menu item tells a story of the local farmers and artisans who contribute to the vibrant flavours, helping to foster a sense of community and support for local produce that is at the heart of the Cptn Jack’s philosophy. Be sure not to miss the signature housemade flatbread cooked in the newly installed wood-fired oven.

Whether it’s the intimate indoor dining or the picturesque all-weather terrace, every meal at Cptn Jack’s feels special. The casual elegance and commitment to superior ingredients ensure that Cptn Jack’s is always a destination worth hunting down.

Opening hours: Thursday-Saturday 11.30am-8.30pm; Sunday 11.30am-5.30pm

Cptn Jack’s

Yaringa Boat Harbour, 1 Lumeah Rd, Somerville

P: 5977 4939

www.cptnjacks.com.au

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Fifty5

Fifty5 is the new kid on the block in Mornington, the place to go for a perfect blend of culinary creativity and vibrant nightlife. Recently opened with a fresh, quirky and nostalgic design, the restaurant serves up a range of Asian fusion dishes, masterfully crafted by a team of talented Asian chefs. The menu showcases their years of experience and delivers vibrant, authentic flavours. 

The traditional pad thai is a popular favourite, and the spiced crispy pork belly is a real highlight. If you prefer a vegan option, the tofu bao buns are light and soft, contrasting perfectly with the spicy kick of the sriracha mayonnaise.

The interior at Fifty5 is tastefully unique. Designed by Life Installers, the decor is in a retro-chic style, with seagrass wallpaper and vintage artwork. It’s a little like going to visit an eccentrics aunt’s lounge, complete with a wide selection of porcelain tigers. Whether you're dining on the newly revealed mezzanine, relaxing in a comfortable booth or nibbling at the bar, the cosy yet intriguing ambience adds to the funky vibe that’s perfect for a night out or a laid-back lunch.

The creative cocktail menu is the ideal complement to the flavoursome food, making it easy to stay well into the evening. On Monday evenings, enjoy the two-for-one classic cocktail specials. Fifty5 comes alive with DJs spinning house, ‘80s disco and laid-back beats on Fridays and Saturdays, while live music, a big screen and sports bar vibe in the beer garden make it the perfect place to chill after work or relax for a Sunday session.

Fifty5 is a feel-good destination where you come for the bites and stay for the vibes.

Opening hours: Thursday to Monday noon-late

Fifty5

55 Barkly Street Mornington

P: 5977 6191

www.fifty5onbarkly.com.au

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French Bakehouse

Tucked away in a quaint enclave of shops on Humphries Rd in Mount Eliza, French Bakehouse is fast gaining fame for its exceptional fare and warm hospitality. This is a must-visit destination for those who love the authentic taste of French pastries and wholesome Peninsula bakery fare.

When you step inside French Bakehouse, you’re greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pastries. Each day, French Bakehouse crafts a range of delectable baked goods such as flaky croissants made with genuine French butter and stunning fruit flans that almost look too beautiful to eat. You will find your favourite staples here too, including the seeded light rye loaf and authentic crusty French sticks.

What sets French Bakehouse apart is its unwavering commitment to quality and its proud support of Peninsula producers, meaning you can taste the freshness and flavour of locally sourced ingredients in every mouthful. Supporting local extends beyond using the best ingredients the Peninsula has to offer, with this family-run establishment also giving back to the community through sponsorships and donations to our clubs.

Under new ownership since early 2023, French Bakehouse has been revamped and transformed, now with a bright and inviting interior that complements its focus on excellent food and service. Expert baristas serve the finest Julius Meinl coffee and Prana Chai, the perfect accompaniments to their delicious pastries.

Open seven days a week, French Bakehouse is the ideal destination for indulging in sweet and savoury baked treats. Every creation here embodies the artisanal methods that define a classic French bakery. For the crème de la crème of pastry on the Peninsula, visit French Bakehouse and be transported on a culinary journey to France with every bite.

Opening hours: Monday to Friday 6am-3pm; Saturday and Sunday 7am-2pm

French Bakehouse

188 Humphries Rd, Mount Eliza

P: 9775 3633

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Gods Kitchen

Whether it’s a first date, a night out with friends or a spontaneous family outing, Gods Kitchen is a fabulous venue with something for everyone to enjoy.

Behind Mornington’s Main St is a heritage-listed church that was built in 1867. In 2009 the once-popular church became the restaurant and bar that locals know and love. Now the reins have been handed over to new owner Kelly, who has a passion for entertainment and is a self-proclaimed social butterfly. Moving from South Africa in 2001 and living locally with her partner and blended family of seven children, she’s no stranger to a bustling atmosphere and the lively Peninsula. With 25 years of experience within the construction industry, Kelly has expertly headed up a renovation of the much-loved venue. Adding a splash of modern and stylish updates with earthy tones and greenery, the venue has a new sophisticated lease on life. The sleek design aspects complement the classic church structure and historical stained-glass windows.

Showcasing some of the best produce that the Mornington Peninsula has to offer, Gods’ new menu is packed with fresh, locally sourced flavours. The diverse menu complements the premises with a selection of club classics, steaks, seafood, gourmet pizzas and modern cuisine. With a nod to Kelly’s heritage, be delighted by dishes with South African flair, with grilled seafood platters, mussel pots, or braai (barbecue). Not to be missed is the bunny chow: a curry inside a loaf of bread. Or gather your friends and family to tuck into the share plates and tapas. Everyone’s catered for, with a kids’ menu and options for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets. Indulge in the new dessert options for something rich and decadent or light and fruity. The best tastes of the region don’t stop at the menu, with local wines, ciders, spirits and beers.

A variety of spaces to dine in makes this venue incomparable. The main hall is the upgraded church hall, while the courtyard has an alfresco area for sun-lovers. Head inside to the striking glass atrium that provides a welcoming fine-dining environment underneath the signature stained glass pendant. Younger generations are drawn to the fully enclosed beer garden, complete with television and bar. It’s ideal for sports enthusiasts or private events.

Alongside Gods’ reputation for being the destination to share good times, great food and enjoy original live music in a friendly and inviting environment, Kelly’s also passionate about establishing the venue as a destination for all ages to relax and catch up. Known as the home of live music in Mornington, you can expect to find a combination of fresh talent and leading independent artists gracing the stage, alongside DJs playing a mix of music three to four nights a week where the acoustics of the church create an atmosphere like no other.

Join in on the karaoke, R & B nights, themed trivia nights, happy hour, and weekly specials. The monthly drag bingo always draws a crowd and plenty of laughs. If you’re searching for everything under one roof, look no further.

Opening hours: check socials; closed Monday and Tuesday

Gods Kitchen

53 Barkly St, Mornington

P: 5976 8666

www.godskitchen.com.au

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Island Pasta Company

Island Pasta Company restores the faith of pasta aficionados. The elusive perfect pasta does exist, and it’s right here on the Peninsula.

The owners, Italian chef Luca and German-born Tine, know what their customers want: consistent, exceptional quality pasta and sauce that never fail to impress. This is achieved through their innovative production process mixing authenticity with Italian tradition.

Created with skills mastered in Italy, the home of pasta, Island Pasta Company will soon become a tradition in your own home. All products are produced and handcrafted in small batches directly on the Peninsula, meaning they’re as fresh as you can get.

The appearance, smell and taste of Island Pasta Company products immediately sets them apart. After trying it for the first time, customers realise how digestible this pasta is compared with others. It’s a distinction Luca and Tine hope customers will learn to appreciate: there is a world of difference between commercial and good-quality pasta.

Island Pasta Company offers homemade vegan and egg pasta as well as a variety of delicious sauces for private or commercial use. As well as the dry pasta selection and bottled sauces available at stockists throughout Australia, locals are fortunate to be able to purchase fresh pasta, potato gnocchi made with locally grown potatoes, and traditional Italian lasagna from the company’s Mornington shop.

To discover or renew your passion for pasta, experience Island Pasta Company.

Opening hours: Tuesday 10am-2pm; Wednesday-Friday 10am-5.30pm; Saturday-Sunday 10am-1pm; closed Monday

Island Pasta Company

31a Dava Drive, Mornington

P: 0435 269 175

www.islandpasta.com.au

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La Cabra Mexican

La Cabra is a fun and festive Mexican restaurant serving all your favourite Mexican dishes like nachos, burritos and so much more, along with an amazing range of cocktails. The bright and colourful interior creates a party vibe from the moment you enter, and the cheerful staff keep the friendly atmosphere going. This vibrant new venue, located in the heart of Mornington, is just a five-minute walk from the main beach and is the perfect place to unwind with friends or family.

La Cabra offers something special every day, from Margarita Mondays and the perennial favourite Taco Tuesdays to Happy Hour on Fridays and Sangria Sundays.

On weekends you can book the Bottomless Lunch, with both a meat-lovers and vegetarian option. Enjoy the char-grilled corn, tasty buffalo chicken wings, quesadillas, and fried fish or eggplant tacos, and finish off with some decadent churros for dessert. 

The extensive cocktail list continues the festive feel, with exciting blends of ingredients like the famous passionfruit and lychee margarita.

More than killer burritos and great drinks, La Cabra is a group of restaurants focused on great food, service and value. The Mornington restaurant adds to the other La Cabra venues in Melbourne, with the three-storey flagship eatery in Mordialloc featuring a roof-top bar, and other sites including Hawthorn, Hampton and St Kilda.

Opening hours: daily noon-late

La Cabra

111 Main St, Mornington

P: 1300LACABRA (5222272)

www.lacabramexican.com.au

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Le Feu Mornington

Discover an enticing blend of Vietnamese and French culinary traditions at Le Feu Mornington, with a dining experience that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in cultural heritage.

At this warm, family-friendly venue you will feel welcomed into an inviting atmosphere characterised by cosy, thoughtful decor and a layout that encourages connection and comfort. Every detail, from the warm lighting to the natural textures, creates a setting reminiscent of a relaxed gathering at a friend's home for a shared meal.

Le Feu Mornington takes a great deal of pride in providing 100 per cent gluten-free, FODMAP and low spiciness menus, catering to diverse lifestyles and ensuring that everyone can indulge in its bold flavours. The excellent value entrees like the green prawns and the chicken satay provide a delicious sample of street-style food. Signature dishes such as pho and sher Wagyu beef curry, cooked to perfection over several hours, are a shining example of traditional Vietnamese flavours. The beverage selection, featuring a delightful choice of wines and Vietnamese beer, perfectly complements the flavours of the dishes.

Le Feu Mornington offers a distinctive sit-down dining experience that sets it apart from other Le Feu locations. This venue is celebrated for its exceptional table service and friendly staff who go out of their way to connect with guests one-on-one, adding a personal touch to every dining experience that makes everyone feel like family.

In addition to its delectable menu and ambient setting, Le Feu Mornington continues the traditions of the Le Feu group by celebrating the artistry and diversity of Vietnamese cuisine.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday noon-9pm; Sunday noon-8pm

Le Feu Mornington

10 Blake St, Mornington

P: 0481 994 997

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

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Mr Velvet Ears

Passion and fun at the heart of Mr Velvet Ears

Mr Velvet Ears Wine Company was born out of Ashley and Andrea Hayden’s shared passion for wine, food and bringing people together. Inspired by the velvet-soft ears of the couple’s previous dog, the name also reflects the fun and approachable vibe the duo envisaged for the brand. From its humble beginnings with the 2018 vintage, it’s a vibrant winery that at its core celebrates creativity and community. The Haydens’ mantra, instilled within their brand’s ethos, is to not take things too seriously – a concept communicated through their quirky branding and approach to business.

You’ll find Mr Velvet Ears at 148 Coolart Rd in Tuerong, based out of Oaktree Farm.  This is also home to The Cottage, which can house up to eight guests. With a guaranteed warm welcome from the hosts, it’s ideal for those wanting an intimate experience where they can truly connect with the winery through a private winery tour and wine-tasting.

Ashley and Andrea planted 750 pinot noir vines in 2023 as part of their long-term plan for the vineyard. In the meantime, they’ll continue to source grapes from trusted local growers with whom they’ve fostered relationships, reinforcing the couple’s commitment to supporting others on their business journeys. These elements embody their vision of building a destination that celebrates great wine, great people and a place to experience quality handmade products from the surrounding area.

Mr Velvet Ears is known for its small-batch handcrafted wines. However, the brand and experience are as important as the wine. These one-of-a-kind winemakers are focused on creating a fun, casual and always welcoming atmosphere when you visit. Their personalities reflect these elements, and it’s mirrored in their customer service as well. With very successful corporate careers and a wealth of previous market research in the wine industry, Ashley and Andrea have shaped a customer experience that makes every guest feel valued and part of the Mr Velvet Ears story.

“We’ve created a place where the passion for fostering strong relationships shines, whether it’s working with suppliers or ensuring that guests have an unforgettable experience either at the farm or at the multiple wine shows we attend,” Andrea said. “The winery is a true reflection of our combined passion for people and great wine, with a concentrated effort put into building genuine relationships and providing outstanding hospitality.”

Looking ahead, this unstoppable husband and wife team are focused on expanding the vineyard and increasing their wine selection while continuing to develop Oaktree Farm. Andrea has a vision to create more opportunities for collaboration and community engagement, something she holds close to her heart. With Lola, their four-legged staff member, heading up product development, there are plans for a new brand – Miss Chief, as in ‘mischief’ –  at some future stage. Together, their combined leadership ensures that Mr Velvet Ears continues to grow with gusto while remaining true to its core values of fun, inclusivity, and a genuine love for wine and people.

Find them at148 Coolart Rd, Tuerong, P: 0400 975 036
www.mrvelvetears.com.au

Opening hours: first weekend of the month or by appointment

KATE SEARS

Mr Velvet Ears

148 Coolart Rd, Tuerong

P: 0400 975 036

www.mrvelvetears.com.au

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Mr Vincenzo’s

Mr Vincenzo’s in Mornington combines a vibrant dining experience with Italian flavours and a cool 1970s coastal vibe. Founded by hospitality veteran Matti Fallon and Paul Goddard of Colt Dining, which burned down in October last year, this trendy bistro has quickly become a favourite local hotspot, offering stunning views of Mornington Park and overlooking the bay. The restaurant’s quirky decor, complete with wine-bottle-green floors, cork accents and vintage Napolitano photos, creates a retro atmosphere that makes you feel as though you have stepped into a vintage postcard but with a funky modern edge.

The whole place feels refreshingly unpretentious, from the well-seasoned characters in the photos on the walls to the delicious share plates and hearty pastas.  The menu, designed by executive chef Matti and head chef Michael Kharsas – formerly from Tedesca and Point Leo – is a playful fusion of classic Italian techniques and their own contemporary flair.

Known for their creative approach to the ever-changing menu, with different pasta dishes often changed daily, the team pride themselves on working with local farmers, producers and fishers to showcase the Peninsula's finest offerings.

Stand-out dishes include kingfish crudo with grapefruit, green olives and thyme; slow-cooked lamb ribs with vincotto caramel; and Mount Martha mussels with nduja and cannelloni beans. Larger dishes designed for sharing with friends include beef bavette or the John Dory with mustard green verde and capers. Finish with pan-seared provolone cheese with honey and boozy currents with pinenuts or dark chocolate delice with rosemary pickled cherries and walnuts.

Beyond the food, Mr Vincenzo’s has a carefully curated wine list with a focus on Italian varietals, and a drinks menu that complements the bold, flavourful dishes. The restaurant’s relaxed yet stylish ambience, combined with its exceptional service and coastal charm, makes it the perfect spot for a casual dinner, family gathering or celebratory meal.

Opening hours: Thursday 5.30-9pm; Friday and Saturday noon-late;  Sunday noon-4pm; Monday 6-9pm; closed Tuesday and Wednesday

Mr Vincenzo’s

784 Esplanade, Mornington

P: 0411 755 655

www.mrvincenzos.com

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Mr. Jackson

As vibrant and eclectic as the crowds it draws to its tables, at Mr. Jackson there’s a kaleidoscope of colour on every plate.

Beneath the outstretched branches of a majestic plane tree on Mornington’s Main St, the popular cafe beckons to all who pass by.  It’s impossible to resist looking over the shoulders of diners in the outdoor seating area. Just like window-shopping; choosing the dish you’d most like to try. That one. No, that one. They all look so good.

The cafe is a favourite for brunch. Start the day with eggs your way: perhaps an omelette or chilli scrambled eggs. Maybe waffles with fresh berries or delicious banana and almond porridge are more your thing. Paired with a Toby Estate coffee, they’re the perfect pick-me-up. If you’re on the go, grab a delicious bacon and egg roll.

At lunch, all appetites are catered for, whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or a light snack. Poke bowls, pumpkin soup, corn fritters and bao buns bursting with colourful freshness are all flavour-packed hits. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan and low-gluten options.

If you’re looking for something different, ask for Mr. Jackson’s famous ricotta pancake, served with ice cream, housemade granola and seasonal fruit. You’ll soon be returning for more.

Whatever your mood, whatever your taste, Mr. Jackson has the perfect dish for you.

Opening hours: daily 7am-3pm

Mr. Jackson

1/45 Main St, Mornington

P: 5909 8815

www.mrjackson.com.au

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