While the Mornington Peninsula is undeniably a year-round destination – home to some of the state’s premier regional wining and dining – it’s a true summer wonderland. It’s bordered by a pristine, ruggedly beautiful coastline; blanketed in rolling vineyards and hinterland; and best of all, it’s within 90 minutes’ drive of Melbourne’s CBD. So, whether you’re whiling away the summer on the ’Ninch or plotting a delicious day trip, here are 10 of the best spots to eat and drink this summer – from a hatted Sri Lankan hideaway and stellar Italian and Indian options to a great crop of newcomers.
The Cellar Kitchen at Avani Wines, Red Hill South Avani winery has long been an incubator for some of Melbourne’s most exciting Indian talent , hosting summer pop-ups by the likes of Biji Dining, Saadi and more. But now owners Shashi and Devendra Singh have introduced a permanent cellar door offering. Fridays through Sundays, there’s a wine-friendly, share-style Indian menu that could include buffalo paneer salad and a lamb shoulder dish from the Indian city of Lucknow.
98 Stanleys Road, Red Hill South, avanisyrah.com.au Nora’s Pizza House, Rye If you’re hurtling down Point Nepean Road towards the tip of the Mornington Peninsula, Nora’s Pizza House is a tasty new reason to make a pit stop in Rye.
It’s by Kael Sahely and Mike Arena (St Paul’s General Store) and chef Safal Aryal (ex-Neighbourhood Pizza). Gather your mates, commandeer a sea-breezy picnic tabl.