Gastronomic glow-up

Explore Geelong’s hip hotels and haute cuisine.

Photography by Tourism Greater Geelong

18 January 2024

Geelong is Victoria’s largest provincial city, located an hour’s drive southwest of the state’s capital, Melbourne.

An important contributor to the Victorian State economy, Geelong hosts around 100 annual events, among them the Festival of Sails and the Great Ocean Road Race.

Geelong’s culinary scene is buzzing with more than a dozen fresh eateries and hotels, sweetening its status as Victoria’s go-to gastronomic and viticultural haven.

Embracing locally sourced produce, these new spots are slicing, dicing and serving up some of the freshest flavours around.

Culinary bigwigs like Adrian Richardson and Michael Demagistris are injecting their bold visions into this lively locale.

Geelong’s upping its game – and it’s not just about footy anymore! Read on for our favourites …

Two Noble blends Southeast Asian zest with modern Aussie flair.

Two Noble is headed up by ex-Movida and Coda talents and is a must-visit for foodies.

Geelong offers a plethora of gastronomic options.

Tarra Queenscliff is located right on the beach at Queenscliff in a renovated ferry terminal. (Pic: Chris McConville.)

New nosh spots

Two Noble

A gastronomic gem atop a 173-year-old pub, blending Southeast Asian zest with modern Aussie flair. Spearheaded by ex-Movida and Coda talents, Two Noble is a must-visit for foodies. Opened August 2023.

Tarra Restaurant

Coastal chic dining inside a ferry terminal architectural marvel at Queenscliff. Helmed by Michael Demagistris (Master Chef top 4), Tarra Restaurant is a contemporary culinary cruise. Opened October 2023.

Maestro by Adrian Richardson

The meat maestro’s latest venture at Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong. Watch culinary art in motion in the show kitchen. Maestro by Adrian Richardson opened September 2023.

Tempo Kitchen & Bar at Novotel

A waterfront haven for seafood and grill enthusiasts, led by Erwin Joven, a maestro of luxury dining. Tempo Kitchen & Bar at Novotel opened September 2023.

Barwon Edge Restaurant

Middle Eastern flavours on the Barwon River’s edge. A new culinary jewel by the brains behind Alma and Felix. Barwon Edge Restaurant opened September 2023.

Eureka Hotel

An old pub with new vibes, the Eureka Hotel is now one of Geelong’s top spots for live tunes and big acts. Opened September 2023.

Queen of the West

A 1919 classic corner pub, Queen of the West has been meticulously restored to its original glory. Reopened August 2023.

Mt Pleasant Road Brewers

A Belmont tap-room serving local brews and rooftop honey. Mt Pleasant Road Brewers opened February 2023.

Chic sleeps

Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong

The region’s largest and first major hotel in two decades. Family-friendly, with an indoor pool, the Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong opened September 2023.

Quest Central Geelong

With 87 apartment-style digs with conference spaces, a business lounge, and a rooftop deck, the Quest Central Geelong opened September 2023.

Mt Duneed Estate Accommodation Pods

Snooze among the vines in luxe pods, some with outdoor baths. Mt Duneed Estate Accommodation Pods opened August 2023.

New shining star

Geelong Arts Centre

A $140-million state-of-the-art, whimsical space for shows, comedy and concerts, the Geelong Arts Centre is adorned with First Nations art. Opened August 2023.

For more scoops on these hotspots, contact Yasmin Paton at Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine.

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