Two hours northwest of Melbourne lies the unsuspecting heart of Australia’s regional food scene. The Bendigo Region might be known for its impressive Victorian architecture, rich cultural heritage and significant ties to the mid-1800s gold rush, but what many might not know about is its celebration of gastronomy.
UNESCO Creative City and Region Of Gastronomy
Once reserved for the protection of historical heritage, UNESCO now honour cities of cultural significance, granting the prestigious title of City of Gastronomy to regions that celebrate their culinary heritage with local ingredients and a vibrant food culture.
For the Bendigo Region — named Australia’s first UNESCO City and Region of Gastronomy in 2019 — this title was awarded in part for the focus on paddock-to-plate culture as part of its rich heritage.
The best restaurants in the Bendigo Region
Terrae
Situated in the heart of the arts precinct in a gold rush era building, Terrae — meaning earth — has a seasonal menu, born from the best local and regional produce, including fresh ingredients from their own farm gardens and orchard.
Rooted in modern European cuisine, the menu blends time-honoured cooking methods with a contemporary flair. From the indulgent beef shin rigatoni to the newly added cured kingfish, every dish at Terrae puts a twist on the expected.
Ms Batterhams
Located in the basement of a former school, this sophisticated speakeasy-style lounge bar is rooted in history, family connection and the honouring of those before us. The inspired Southern European menu changes seasonally to accommodate fresh local ingredients. And while you’re there, be sure to sip on the namesake Winifred cocktail. And if you’re venturing to Heathcote’s Tellurian Wines cellar door, you might just catch one of Ms Batterhams’ once-a-month restaurant pop-ups.
Alium Dining
Overlooking the iconic Alexandra Fountain at View Point, Alium Dining is set within what was once the Bendigo’s Royal Bank. The building is one of the finest examples of intact Art Nouveau architecture in the city and has been carefully reimagined as a contemporary dining destination.
The menu celebrates creativity with locally inspired dishes that evolve throughout the year to meet seasonal demand. Currently not to miss from the menu is the Southeast Asian-inspired raw trevally, coconut and nước chấm.
When paired with the light-filled, elegant interior and sweeping views, the culinary destination feels distinctly connected to the landscape.
The Woodhouse Bar and Grill
Honouring its heritage as a former butcher from the moment you walk through the doors, The Woodhouse sets the tone of what’s to come with cuts of meat hanging in the entrance.
Inside, the space is warm and inviting with a cosy atmosphere that invites you to linger a little longer. A deep understanding and respect for produce sits at the heart of your dining experience here. With premium cuts expertly prepared over a red gum fire, giving it their signature rich smoky flavour. Aside from decadent cuts of meat, the Berkshire pork belly braised with apple, soy and aromatics, scallop and Vietnamese herb salad is a must-try on their menu.
Le Foyer
Le Foyer might be the Bendigo Region’s newest addition, and the restaurant is bringing fresh energy and buzz to the dining scene with its contemporary cuisine, fire-led cooking and genuine hospitality.
Landing in a former glass merchant’s building, the menu celebrates the best of regional Victoria with a showcase of quality ingredients, sustainability and simplicity. One dish that exemplifies their ethos is the McIvor farm Berkshire pork skewers, mojo rojo and lemon labneh.
If you can’t decide which restaurant to choose from, or are short on time, why not take a food tour? The Bendigo Region offers two unmissable tours: the award-winning Taste of Bendigo walking tour and Progressive Fine Dining Experience.
Where to stay in the Bendigo Region
The Bendigo Region has plenty in store for its visitors, so finding a place to stay and enjoy the local food scene is recommended.
If utmost convenience is your preference, the Hotel Ernest is situated in the same gold rush heritage building as Terrae. Bendigo Lodges offers an inviting, modern stay just moments from the city centre and Central Deborah Gold Mine.
What to do in the Bendigo Region
Aside from eating your way through the city, the Bendigo Region is steeped in culture to explore, from historic tram rides to exploring the city’s vibrant art scene with a self-guided walking tour.
You’d be remiss if you didn’t take the time to tour the gold mines that shaped the town into the culturally significant place it is today. When Mrs Margaret Kennedy discovered the first alluvial gold, she inadvertently started the richest race to find treasure, with tens of thousands of individuals migrating to the land. It’s this migration that formed the culturally diverse landscape you see today across the Bendigo Region.
If you’re not done exploring the food scene, the Bendigo Region has plenty of local produce markets, cafes and retail stores to pick up fresh seasonal goods. As well as vines dating back to the 1850s, the Bendigo Region is celebrated for its acclaimed shiraz and a growing range of Mediterranean varietals. With over 60 cellar doors to choose from, you’ll feel spoilt for choice.
Discover why the Bendigo Region is Australia’s first UNESCO City and Region of Gastronomy. From award-winning restaurants and local produce to rich gold rush history, vibrant culture and unique accommodation, this regional Victorian destination offers an unforgettable food and travel experience.
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