1. Benton Rise Farm
Its days of carrying commuters long over, the 1910 Red Rattler train carriage at Benton Rise Farm is an exceedingly pleasant place to load up on local produce. Grab a basket and browse the singular aisle for fruit, veg, artisan breads, cheese, honey and more. Then relax with a hot drink and sweet treat from the farm's small cafe.
2. Rare Hare at Jackalope Hotel
Drop into Rare Hare for plates of nosh guided by the seasons, paired with top drops from the restaurant's own vineyard. Grab a seat indoors, to be kept cosy by the hand-crafted wood-fire oven. If the weather's fine, take time outdoors to dine against a backdrop of vine-laced hills and Jackalope Hotel's distinctive silhouette.
3. Merricks General Wine Store
The perfect stop at the end of the Red Hill Rail Trail, Merricks General Wine Store offers the best of both worlds; fill up a hamper for later or try the wares onsite. Drop in for a quick brekky, or linger over a long lunch. Then browse their collection of produce, and local wine from the rustic cellar door.
4. Laura at Pt Leo Estate
Pull up a chair at award-winning restaurant Laura, one of the top dining experiences on the peninsula. After lunch, wander the sculpture park at Pt. Leo Estate with wine in hand. Don't miss the restaurant's namesake; the seven-metre-tall sculpture by Jaume Plensa, which solemnly watches over the dining area.
5. Red Gum BBQ
Meatlovers, follow the scent of Southern-style cooking into the shed of Red Gum BBQ, where meat is often cooked 4 to 12 hours ahead. Get stuck into your favourite cut or ask a Pittmaster for help in selecting the perfect slow-smoked meal.
6. Tedesca Osteria
Head to Tedesca Osteria for lunch amid the rolling hills of Red Hill, where an eclectic wine collection and art gallery also awaits. The kitchen is built around a wood-fire oven and grill, while a fixed menu showcases their dedication to farm-grown produce and the 'whole animal' philosophy.
7. Mock Red Hill
Make a stop at Mock Red Hill, a biodynamic apple orchard and cider brewery. Sip on craft apple ciders and juice in their Cider Lounge, or stock up on fresh produce and freeze-dried fruits within the farmgate store. Tummy rumbling? The family serve up a tapas-style lunch indoors or within their sunny courtyard.
8. Foxeys Hangout
Drop into Foxeys Hangout for casual eating with vineyard views. Pick from a list of biodynamic wines, paired with small share plates guided by whatever happens to be in season.
9. Many Little Bar and Dining
Dine fine inside or relax in the sun-drenched deck and courtyard of Many Little, with a top local drop or creative cocktail. Choose between a chef's or a la carte menu, inspired by Modern Asian – Sri Lankan cuisine.
10. St Andrews Beach Brewery
Hop into St Andrews Beach Brewery, a former horse-training facility turned beer destination. Sit within the stables and sample ale inspired by the venue's unique past. Pizza, burgers and snack plates are available, designed to pair perfectly with the brewery's core range of beers.