If there’s any sound or sight which reflects the start to winter, it has to be the crackling of a fire and dancing of flames, away from the iciness which lingers outside. Arguably the ideal antidote to the chilly temperatures, fireside dining has become a roaring experience to be found in and around the hinterland and coastal scenes of the Mornington Peninsula (and it’s not hard to see why!) If you’re looking to treat a special loved one, enjoy a day of indulgence with the extended family or simply find cosiness amongst the warmth, we highly recommend exploring more of these standout restaurants, all of which include the presence of a homely fireplace:
The Dining Room at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill - Red Hill
Long lunches or cosy dinners by the fire; are the irresistible opportunities in The Dining Room at Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill. It’ll be hard not to confess winter as your favourite season upon leaving this magical and inviting space.
Uncover the ongoing beauty of Lancemore Lindenderry Red Hill here.
Hickinbotham of Dromana - Dromana
Take a trip to Hickinbotham of Dromana where a rustic, comfy and overwhelmingly homely atmosphere with a roaring open fire welcomes you from arrival. Savour a delish winter-inspired meal along with award-winning wine to accompany (there’s also frequent live music on show too!)
Explore more of Hickinbotham of Dromana here.
Perfectly positioned with views extending over the town and beyond to the Port Phillip waters, Hotel Sorrento is consistently enjoyed by family, friends and all those seeking to embrace the coastal lifestyle. Between entering and finding your comfy seat at the table, expect to notice a few fireplaces along the way, adding warmth to both the dining space and bar.
Check out the current delicious menu at Hotel Sorrento here.
Serving up some standout craft beers as well as delicious classic dishes, Jetty Road Brewery in Dromana is all about homely and heroic vibes. The fireplace in the dining area is sure to keep the stellar vibes going throughout the winter season.
Definitely not one to miss. Find all the details for Jetty Road Brewery here.
As the first winery restaurant on the Mornington Peninsula, Max’s Restaurant in Red Hill South has become a fan favourite for its seasonal menu, relaxed ambience and panoramic window views. Escape the outdoor chill and get cosy alongside a fire during the winter months; you’re in for an absolute treat!
Discover more of the story behind Max’s Restaurant here.
Offering an authentic country experience for those who visit, Merricks General Wine Store features pockets of gourmet delight at every turn of the corner. In addition to the inviting Cellar Door and Merricks House Art Gallery, the restaurant here is much-loved by both the locals and daytrippers. And yes, there’s a fireplace here too!
There’s so much to get up to when stopping by the charming Merricks General Wine Store, let’s start planning how you’ll spend your time here.
Magnificent views over the vineyard are only the beginning of the spectacle at Paringa Estate in Red Hill South. The intimate atmosphere in the restaurant is paired with a menu celebrating locally sourced and seasonal produce. A fireplace here too? Of course!
How there’s plenty to love about Paringa Estate, and you’ll see why here.
Nestled alongside the superb playing grounds of Moonah Links Golf Resort, Pebbles Restaurant in Fingal promotes a fine dining experience rich in seasonal and regional ingredients, delicious food and wine offerings and quality service. The fireplace adds extra dazzle to the overall comforting atmosphere.
Explore more of Pebbles Restaurant here.
Tucked away in the heart of the hinterland, Polperro Winery in Red Hill stands as both a culinary and visual delight. The fireplace in the restaurant equates to a cosy and warming dining experience, where seasonal harvests are positioned centre stage of the menu. Wanting to witness the full magic of the outdoor winter wonderland? You’ll also find an alfresco fire pit to soothe all the senses.
Take a tour of the picturesque Polperro Winery here.
Only a hop, skip or a jump away from Jackalope Hotel, Rare Hare at Willow Creek Vineyard in Merricks North is home to curious tastes and wagging tails…just joking! Here, it’s not only the hand-crafted wood-fired oven that is turning up the heat this wintertime. There’s also a fireplace inside the restaurant so you’ll be kept nice and toasty on those colder and crisp days.
When will you be hopping over to Rare Hare? (We’ll join you!) Find all the details needed for the visit here.
Once a working racehorse training facility and now one of the top breweries on the Mornington Peninsula, St Andrews Beach Brewery in Fingal never fails to inspire those who visit. Find a seat indoors during these cooler winter months, before enjoying standout craft beers, a delectable snack menu and of course, the inviting fireplace.
Explore more of St Andrews Beach Brewery here.
Looking for more ways to entertain yourself on the Mornington Peninsula this season?
Find all the information you need here to discover your next adventure:
Looking for more Mornington Peninsula flavours? Discover food sensations like a local: