Whirrakee Restaurant (named after a local wattle) is housed in the elegant Royal Bank building (circa 1908), at the heart of Bendigo’s historic precinct. With top-notch food to match its grand setting, it’s Bendigo’s special occasion restaurant. From the well-balanced menu you might start with an artfully plated salad of seared Coffin Bay scallops, potato and yabbies with sorrel dressing, or slow-braised Berkshire pork belly with crackling, peach compote and shaved turnip. Local Leverton Park lamb loin may be served with eggplant puree and mint salad, or duck - roasted breast and confit galette - with Pedro Ximenez jus. Chef Brent Slade provides three pages of definitions at the back of the menu in case you can’t tell your rillettes from your remoulade. Desserts, like cherry clafoutis with clove icecream, often draw on seasonal fruits. Meals are punctuated by complimentary little tastes from the kitchen, always a nice treat. A smart wine list and great floor staff complete a special package.

Open Tues–Sun noon–3pm, 6.30pm–late
Typical prices E $19 M $35 D $17
Cards AE MC V Eftpos
Wine A lengthy wide-ranging list of New and Old World wines, with a focus on Central Victorian wines
Owner & chef Brent Slade
Seats 50; private room, outdoor seating

And … Request a table at the front for a great view of the Alexandra fountain.