Port Fairy Cafes To Add To Your List

From a casual beachfront cafe with cracking ocean views to a specialty roastery known for cranking out top-notch coffee, there’s a strong selection of Port Fairy cafes to choose from on your next visit.

When travelling on the Great Ocean Road, Port Fairy’s unique combo of heritage buildings and incredible food and wine options make it a must-visit town. Whether you’re after a veggie-packed brunch, quick coffee pitstop or a classic burger and shake combo, there are plenty of Port Fairy cafes to choose from.

1. Port Fairy Coffee Roasters

This speciality coffee roaster and retail store does a roaring trade all year long. Stop by for a takeaway latte, smoothie or cold pressed juice, or drop into the shop to grab a fresh salad or loaf of sourdough for later.

the exterior of Port Fairy Coffee Roasters — Stop by for a takeaway latte at Port Fairy Coffee Roasters.

If you love a dark roast, be sure to buy a bag of the Dead Man’s blend beans to take a little slice of Port Fairy goodness home with you.

roasting coffee beans at Port Fairy Coffee Roasters — Grab some takeaway beans at this specialty coffee roaster.

Address: 59a Bank St, Port Fairy

2. Bank Street + Co

The well-travelled owners of this popular corner cafe bring influences from around the globe to the menu of Bank Street + Co. You’ll see hints of Greek, Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine shine through in the dishes, whether it’s a Turkish bread toastie or seafood linguine. Open (early) for breakfast and lunch, this superb cafe doesn’t take bookings, so you’ll have to try your luck for a table. If you’re an early riser, you’ll be pleased to know that this place opens at 6:30am for all your caffeine and brekkie needs.

a plate of food with coffee at Bank Street + Co — Bank Street + Co. serves up Greek, Italian and Middle Eastern cuisine. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Address: 28 Bank St, Port Fairy

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3. The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe

Whether you’re after smashed avo on sourdough for breakfast, a filling panini for lunch, or a rich, chocolate brownie with a cup of Earl Grey tea in the afternoon, head to this comfy cafe tucked down an alley (look for the blackboard on the main street). In summer the courtyard is an especially great spot to bask in the sunshine while enjoying brunch or lunch.

coffee and pastries at The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe — Head to The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe for breakfast.

Address: 47 Sackville St, Port Fairy

4. The Mill

Open for breakfast, lunch and takeaway, this busy little cafe’s indoor and outdoor seating makes it a top option all year round. During summer, sit out the front and enjoy a chicken burger and milkshake in the sun. During winter, bunker down inside with a warming hot chocolate. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free menu options make The Mill a winner for visitors with dietary requirements too.

Address: 42 Sackville St, Port Fairy

5. Home Grown

If you’re after a nourishing yet delicious feed, make a beeline for Home Grown. As a cafe that champions local, organic and homegrown produce, you’ll find plenty of healthy options here. For breakfast, you can’t go past Greens Galore, a poached egg dish topped with a generous serving of sauteed greens, smashed peas, Meredith feta and pepitas.

a close-up shot of food at Home Grown cafe, Port Fairy — Home Grown cafe champions local, organic and homegrown produce. (Image: Gunilla Forbes)

Fairtrade coffee, organic tea, chai, protein smoothies, fruit lassis, babyccinos and puppyccinos made with lactose-free milk means everyone in the family (including your four-legged friends) can enjoy a pitstop here.

Address: 2/32 Bank St, Port Fairy

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6. Rebecaa’s Cafe and Ice Creamery

It’s all about the sweet stuff at Rebecca’s Cafe. During summer, the freshly churned fruit sorbets fly out the door, while the house-baked biscuits, cakes and slices are popular all year round. Stop by to grab a takeaway coffee and slice of cake to enjoy on the road or pop in for an ice cream cone after a day at the beach. Looking for some gifts? Buy jars of mini Yo-Yo biscuits or slabs of rocky road for friends and family back home.

Address: 70/72 Sackville St, Port Fairy

7. Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant

Open for both lunch and dinner on the weekends, Gregory’s straddles the line between cafe and restaurant. Whether you want a light lunch of toasted paninis or something more substantial like lamb shanks with mashed potato and gravy, Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant can do both! Bookings recommended.

a food plate at Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant, Port Fairy — Gregory’s is perfect for brekkie, lunch or dinner.

Address: 1/32 Bank St, Port Fairy

8. Charlie’s On East

This casual, kid-friendly spot right on the beach is perfect for a no-fuss post-swim brekkie, lunch, coffee or snack. No need to dress up here – just rock up in your flip-flops and boardshorts and perch yourself at a table out the front. Spending a leisurely morning enjoying a coffee and a plate of Eggs Benedict with ocean views is the rare type of simple pleasure this no-frills cafe gets right.

Address: 4 Hughes Ave, Port Fairy

Now read our guide to the best restaurants in Port Fairy.

There’s nothing quite like Melbourne in the warmer months. Come spring, the city emerges from its cold-weather cocoon and brims with marquee events, vibrant seasonal menus, brilliant blooms and a fresh energy.

The centre of the city is where most of the magic happens. It’s a labyrinth of art-lined alleys and meandering laneways, filled with restaurants, cafes, rooftop bars, galleries, live music joints, theatres, boutiques, high-end hotels like The Westin Melbourne and much, much more. In spring and summer, especially, locals and travellers alike come to enjoy the balmy weather and celebratory spirit.

If you’re planning to be one of them, here are the best places for eating, drinking, exploring and staying.

Where to stay

The Westin Melbourne

Situated in the heart of the city on bustling Collins Street, The Westin Melbourne is a supremely convenient base. With the hotel as a base, explore the entire CBD – including Federation Square and Melbourne’s shopping, dining, theatre and sporting precincts – on foot.

Despite its central location, the hotel is something of an oasis. It has a serene ambience and elegantly understated design that provides respite at the end of a busy day. Think timeless interiors with warm timbers and neutral tones, and spacious rooms with signature Heavenly® beds and sumptuous linens. You’ll also indulge in impeccable service and amenities like fitness and wellness centres and an indoor pool. Selected rooms have sweeping city views.

Where to eat and drink

1. Allegro

Allegro is refined yet welcoming, pairing seasonal Australian produce and international flavours, finished with finesse. The à la carte, set and pre-theatre menus change seasonally. In spring and summer, expect a lively and creative line-up of dishes. You can also partake in a playful and limited-edition High Cheese offering that’s well worth trying if you’re a lover of blues and bries.

The restaurant happens to be located right inside The Westin Melbourne. It’s an ideal spot if you’re staying at the hotel and need somewhere to dine or drink before hitting the town.

2. Lobby Lounge

the westin melbourne lobby lounge — Step into the Lobby Lounge.

Whether you’re after a quick bite before exploring the city, a leisurely lunch or dinner, or a post-theatre nightcap, head to The Westin Melbourne’s elegant Lobby Lounge.

The menu features everything from moreish snacks, small bites and share plates to hearty all-day meals and desserts. The accompanying drinks list is a treasure trove of varietals, with a notable leaning towards Victorian drops and an excellent selection of spirits.

For a truly indulgent experience, book yourself in for the signature high tea. You’ll savour three tiers of beautifully crafted sweet and savoury treats, specialty tea and coffee, and the option for a sneaky glass of bubbly.

3. Other places to dine

diners at supernormal melbourne — There’s no shortage of tasty dining options, in and nearby The Westin Melbourne. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Dotted around the city are some of Melbourne’s most acclaimed dining destinations. Supernormal is a local institution. Feast on inventive Pan-Asian dishes made with fresh ingredients, paired with a Japanese whisky or sake from the extensive drinks list. At Gimlet, the surroundings are utterly romantic, the service impeccable and the food outstanding. Expect sustainably sourced meats, seafood and produce finished with European flavours and technique.

Apollo Inn – the sister venue to Gimlet and Supernormal – does punchy snacks, share plates and incredible drinks. Try the signature Picon Biere, a refined take on a shandy.

Dukes Coffee Roasters at Ross House is a great place to start your day, serving up organic and sustainable brews made with precision.

While you’re in the city, take a wander down Hosier and AC/DC Lanes. Beyond the famed street art along both, you’ll find a cluster of must-try eateries and bars, including MoVida, Pastuso, Bar Bambi and Tres a Cinco.

Things to do

1. Take a run through Melbourne’s green spaces

a bridge across yarra river — Run or walk along the Yarra River. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s outdoors look their very best in spring and summer. The parks and gardens come alive with colourful blooms, the trees in and around the CBD regain their verdant canopy, and the Yarra River sparkles in the sun.

A run or walk in nearby green spaces, like Carlton Gardens, Fitzroy Gardens and the Royal Botanic Gardens, lets you soak up the scenery. The Westin Melbourne also provides curated running routes through surrounding gardens and along the Yarra. Workout gear and Bala weights can be borrowed from the hotel if you forget to pack your own.

2. Browse the boutique galleries

two women looking at an exhibition in the national gallery of victoria — See the collections of NGV. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Independent art galleries are practically synonymous with Melbourne, and many of them are conveniently situated in the city centre. You can easily hop between Flinders Lane Gallery, Arc One Gallery, Outre Gallery, Caves Gallery, Gallery Funaki and D’Lan Contemporary, allowing you to experience the city’s vibrant art scene in a single day.

If you’ve got an afternoon to spare, venture over the Yarra to the National Gallery of Victoria. The iconic and historic institution houses both a vast permanent collection and an exciting roster of rotating exhibitions.

3. Catch some live music

live music at the cherry bar in melbourne — Dive into Melbourne’s live music scene. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Melbourne’s live music scene reignites when spring hits. In and around the CBD are several beloved live music venues that showcase everything from jazz to rock to electronic.

Visit intimate venues like Bird’s Basement, Wax Music Lounge and Cherry Bar, or larger ones, such as The Toff, Forum and Palais Theatre, for major acts. Plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs host regular gigs, too, including The Westin Melbourne’s Lobby Lounge. Every Saturday from 12-3pm, enjoy live strings alongside your lunch or afternoon tea.

4. Soak up the atmosphere at the MCG

three punters in big hats at the melbourne cricket ground — Book tickets for a big sports bash. (Credit: Visit Vic)

The Melbourne Cricket Ground welcomes its namesake sport in the warmer months. Watch One-Day Internationals, T20 Internationals, Big Bash League and Sheffield Shield matches throughout the season, or settle in for the multi-day Boxing Day Test.

Spring and summer are also when the MCG holds big events and concerts. Surrounded by the roar and energy of the venue’s legendary crowds, there are few places better than this to see a live gig.

5. Experience the magic of the Regent Theatre

the inside steps of melbourne's regent theatre — Soak in Regent Theatre’s architecture. (Credit: Visit Vic)

Standing proud for nearly 100 years, the Regent Theatre is a stunning venue: its grand exterior opens to a gorgeously ornate interior decked out with chandeliers, plush drapes and gilded details.

Stopping by to take in its architecture is memorable enough. But if you’ve got the time, book a ticket to one of the spectacular shows that take place inside. The venue hosts a diverse line-up of live music, musicals, opera, dance, theatre and comedy. In spring and summer, the program is at its most energetic, with events to suit all tastes.

Whatever draws you to Melbourne, The Westin Melbourne is at the centre of it all. Start preparing for an adventure at marriott.com.

8 of the best Port Fairy cafes to add to your list

From a casual beachfront cafe with cracking ocean views to a specialty roastery known for cranking out top-notch coffee, there’s a strong selection of Port Fairy cafes to choose from on your next visit.

1. Port Fairy Coffee Roasters

2. Bank Street + Co

3. The Farmers Wife Harvest Cafe

4. The Mill

5. Home Grown

6. Rebecaa’s Cafe and Ice Creamery

7. Gregory’s Cafe Restaurant

8. Charlie’s On East

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8 of the best Port Fairy restaurants to visit on your next trip

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