A Foodies Guide to Phillip Island
As your personal Phillip Island foodie guide, I've curated a delicious list of top 10 spots that will tantalize your taste buds! Get ready to explore the island's culinary delights, from classic fish and chips to authentic Italian, with some great breakfast and family-friendly options thrown in. The list is sorted by distance to the Big Isle Retreat to help you in planning your trip.
General Store Fish & Chips
- Google Star Rating: 4.3
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Fish and Chips / Takeaway
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: ~24 m (next door!)
- Description: You can't come to Phillip Island and not have classic fish and chips, and this spot is incredibly convenient – right next door! The freshness of the seafood really shines, and it's the quintessential relaxed beachside meal. I love grabbing a serve and enjoying it by the water.
Mon Dieu
- Google Star Rating: 4.4
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Breakfast & Lunch
- Cuisine Type: Fusion / Café
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 900 m
- Description: Mon Dieu offers a delightful escape with its focus on fresh, farm-to-plate fare. The garden setting is incredibly charming, perfect for a relaxed breakfast or lunch. I particularly enjoy their unique brunch dishes – a real flavour adventure that stands out from the crowd! Also, great for a coffee after a morning stroll.
Waterboy Café
- Google Star Rating: 4.6
- Kid Friendly: Yes (pet-friendly too!)
- Meal Times: Breakfast & Lunch
- Cuisine Type: Café / Modern Australian
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 1.4km
- Description: Waterboy Café is a true gem for breakfast or lunch. Their menu is fresh and creative, with a fantastic range of healthy options and delicious coffee. I always leave feeling energized and ready for the day, and the bright, welcoming atmosphere is a lovely start to the morning.
Isola Di Capri
- Google Star Rating: 4.2
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Italian
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 1.5 km
- Description: Step into Italy at Isola Di Capri! I adore their authentic pasta dishes and wood-fired pizzas – a true taste of the Mediterranean. The atmosphere is lovely, and with a gelato shop right next door, it's the perfect sweet ending to any meal.
North Pier Hotel
- Google Star Rating: 3.8
- Kid Friendly: Yes (with a kids' play area!)
- Meal Times: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Pub Food / Modern Australian
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 1.7 km
- Description: For a relaxed family meal with bay views, the North Pier Hotel is a winner. Their pub classics are hearty and satisfying, and the kids' play area means parents can actually enjoy their meal in peace. I always appreciate a good parma here after a long day of exploring!
Pino's Trattoria
- Google Star Rating: 4.3
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Italian
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 1.8 km
- Description: For another excellent Italian experience, Pino's Trattoria is a local favourite. Their traditional Italian dishes are made with love, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels like a family dinner. I always appreciate the generous portions and the authentic flavours here.
The Store
- Google Star Rating: 4.5
- Kid Friendly: Yes (with outdoor seating and room for prams)
- Meal Times: Breakfast & Lunch (Closes around 3 pm)
- Cuisine Type: Café / Modern Australian / Local Produce
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 5.1 km
- Description: Tucked away in Ventnor, The Store is a charming spot that perfectly captures the island's relaxed vibe. Their menu focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients, and their coffee is truly exceptional – a must-try for any caffeine enthusiast! It's a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy a delicious, locally-inspired meal.
Rusty Water Brewery
- Google Star Rating: 4.3
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Brewery / Pub Food / Modern Australian
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: ~7 km
- Description: If you're a fan of craft beer and hearty meals, Rusty Water is a must-visit. Home to Phillip Island Brewing Co. you can enjoy a fresh brew with your meal in a relaxed setting, often with live music. I love trying their different beers and pairing them with their delicious pub fare.
Phillip Island Winery
- Google Star Rating: 4.6 (I highly recommend you visit!)
- Kid Friendly: Yes! They even have a "four-legged kids" menu for dogs.
- Meal Times: Lunch. The restaurant is open Wednesday-Sunday from 11:30 am - 4:00 pm (mains until 3:30 pm).
- Cuisine Type: Australian, with a focus on local produce.
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat: 8.3km
- Description: Phillip Island Winery is a welcoming, family-owned establishment nestled in Ventnor with stunning views. They offer a relaxed atmosphere with seasonal dishes crafted from fresh, local produce, paired with their own wines. You can enjoy a meal in their Atrium, a rustic yet light-filled space, or opt for a more intimate dining experience in their limestone restaurant. For those who love the outdoors, there are picnic tables and a 14-acre lawn where you can relax with a bottle of wine and order nibbles. They also have a cellar door for wine tastings and curated gifts.
Saltwater Phillip Island
- Google Star Rating: 4.4
- Kid Friendly: Yes
- Meal Times: Lunch & Dinner
- Cuisine Type: Modern Australian / Wood-fired Pizza
- Distance from Big Isle Retreat : 17km (just after crossing the bridge)
- Description: With stunning 270-degree views of the Phillip Island Bridge and Westernport Bay, Saltwater offers an incredible dining experience. Their modern Australian menu is seasonally inspired, and their wood-fired pizzas are a highlight. Great for special occosians. In warmer weather, I highly recommend booking an outdoor table to soak in the magnificent scenery!