12 McLaren Vale restaurants to book for delectable dining

This article was originally written by Alexis Buxton-Collins with updates by Megan Arkinstall.

From breezy Mediterranean fare with world-class views to stunning modern Asian flavours and cutting-edge regional dining, these McLaren Vale restaurants will satiate all tastebuds.

More than simply a wine region, McLaren Vale is a fertile food bowl that punches well above its weight when it comes to gourmet offerings. Chefs combine dazzlingly fresh local produce with techniques from across the world to create stunning dishes that transcend the picturesque regional location.

From the ocean to the rolling vineyards, these 12 McLaren Vale restaurants are worth adding to your list, whether you fancy a degustation for two or a casual and cosy pub meal.

The shortlist

Fine Dining Gem: Muni
Casual Eats: McLaren Vale Hotel
Best Views: Star of Greece
Great for Special Occasions: Maxwell Wines
Best Design/Most Instagrammable: Fiore

1. The Little Rickshaw

Cuisine: South-east Asian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Trendy

Location: 24 Old Coach Road, Aldinga

the dimly lit restaurant interior of The Little Rickshaw, McLaren Vale

Enjoy eclectic drinks in a speakeasy-style restaurant. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Fleurieu)

Since opening in 2019, this lively spot in a former blacksmith’s shop has quickly become the most sought-after reservation in the seaside town of Aldinga.

Owner Trinh Richards and her mother take traditional Vietnamese flavours and spice them up with influences from across Asia – think takoyaki made with fresh local squid, braised octopus with spicy sambal and chewy hand-pulled noodles doused with chilli, garlic and a housemade mushroom xo.

Opt for the Feed Me menu and you’ll get all the greatest hits (there’s also a cheaper kids version), and the equally eclectic drinks list has a focus on smaller regional wineries and aromatic drops that pair well with the fresh Asian flavours.

2. Maxwell Wines

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Refined

Location: Olivers Rd, McLaren Vale

a male staff arranging the dining table at Maxwell, McLaren Vale

Maxwell takes dining with a view to new levels. (Image: Maxwell Wines)

The views over rows of vines garlanded with lush leaves and an eye-catching conifer maze would take top billing at most venues, but at this winery restaurant, they’re overshadowed by the edible works of art featured in the nine-course degustation.

Each bite is more spectacularly plated than the last, and the showstopping “pearl" of oyster mousse with a patina of sparkling silver is a contender for Australia’s most beautiful bite.

Add in a few secret weapons like fungi from the onsite mushroom cave and delicate sparkling mead hidden among the estate wine pairings and you have all the ingredients for a seriously memorable meal.

3. Salopian Inn

Cuisine: Modern Australian/Asian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Review: 4/5

Location: Corner Main Road & McMurtrie Road, McLaren Vale

Be surrounded by nature when you dine at Salopian Inn. (Image: Small Batch Wine Tours)

Dining doesn’t get more regional than the fare at this longstanding favourite, which features a map of owner Karena Armstrong’s kitchen garden on the back of the menu.

Her exquisite creations pair fabulously fresh produce with subtly balanced flavours and carry a noticeable Asian influence; perfectly plated dumplings packed with king prawns, carp and ginger beg to be dipped in the house-made chilli sauce, while the oh-so-tender master stock braised roo tail with a sweet chilli glaze is spoken of in hushed tones by locals.

The location in a 19th-century cottage surrounded by vines means there are plenty of cosy nooks for private dining experiences (as well as a walk-in red wine cellar that’s worth a visit), and local distilleries are well-represented in the selection of more than 200 gins.

4. Frankie

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 141 McMurtrie Rd, McLaren Vale

a cocktail in hand at Frankie, McLaren Vale

The clock is always set to party time at Frankie.

It’s no surprise that many of the best restaurants in McLaren Vale are located in wineries and the full name of Mitolo’s more casual dining option provides a pretty good idea of what’s on offer.

Pallet-loads of white tiles and plenty of natural light give Frankie Italo Dining & Disco Lounge a distinct piazza vibe, and the pumping disco soundtrack and giant goblets of limoncello spritz make it clear that the clock is always set to party time here.

The kitchen is generous with both flavour and serving sizes in the cucina povera that includes Roman-style pizzas and pasta laden with produce from the Mitolo family farm, and the Inferno chilli oil that comes served in an eyedropper is best approached with caution. But the showstopper is the futuristic-looking gelato cart that opens up at the end of each Sunday sitting to universal acclaim.

5. Muni

Cuisine: Japanese and Taiwanese

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Sophisticated

Review: 4/5

Location: 2/3 High Street, Willunga

Muni has a strong emphasis on sustainability. (Image: South Australian Tourism
Commission/ Fleurieu)

The minimalist fit-out of this sleek diner on the main street of Willunga belies a seriously elegant offering inside. Step into the timber and concrete sanctum and you’ll find hints of the owners’ native Taiwanese cuisine as well as riffs on pan-Asian classics.

The degustation menu changes regularly, but expect the kitchen to breathe new life into familiar dishes – think giant croquettes of fluffy radish cake with shrimp xo – and play with your perception through offerings like an unforgettable “noodle" dish made using ribbons of freshly caught squid.

There’s a strong emphasis on sustainability that carries over into the drinks list, but the natural wines are eminently approachable and pair well with the deceptively complex food.

6. Star of Greece

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Review: 5/5

Location: 1 Esplanade, Port Willunga

Book in early to secure a prime waterfront table. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Josie Withers)

Forget Sydney Harbour views – this restaurant perched on the limestone cliffs in Port Willunga offers the best waterfront dining in Australia. It’s easy to get distracted by the ruined jetty and postcard-perfect turquoise water below, but dive into the menu and you’ll find a mod oz masterclass (the name comes from a nearby shipwreck rather than the cuisine).

European, Asian and Australian influences are given equal weighting, but the location makes it hard to go past seafood options like sweet gin-cured ocean trout and locally caught Szechuan salt and pepper squid, washed down with a crisp white from the excellent cellar.

If you’re too late to get a booking, simply head to the adjacent fish and chip kiosk to enjoy the same views with slightly more humble fare.

7. Vigna Bottin

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 192 Main Road, Willunga

With a rich heritage shaped by successive waves of European immigration, it’s not just the climate that has a distinct Mediterranean feel. This cellar door osteria is one of several Italian restaurants in McLaren Vale delivering down-to-earth fare that fuses the owners’ heritage with the best local ingredients.

Grab a seat in the vine-shaded courtyard and feast on plates of rich pork and veal meatballs made using nonna’s secret recipe, slices of eggplant parmigiana laden with gooey mozzarella and freshly filled tubes of cannoli while working your way through a list of Italian varietals such as crisp vermentino, silky smooth sangiovese and juicy Montepulciano drawn from the estate vineyard.

8. Fiore

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Intimate

Location: 233 Binney Road, McLaren Vale

the restaurant interior of Fiore in McLaren Vale

The restaurant’s interior channels Scandi minimalism. (Image: Tempting Plates)

The magical Down the Rabbit Hole winery, where organic wine tastings are hosted in a restored mint-green double-decker bus, is also home to Fiore, a diner that is all about nourishing, feel-good food.

The cheery restaurant is housed within a bright and airy weatherboard, heated by a fireplace in winter and where sunshine and cool breezes flow through summer. Helmed by executive chef Nick Tadija, the menu is focused on seasonal and local produce, with a Feed Me option for long, leisurely lunches, pizzas on Thursdays, and a Nonna’s Table experience on Friday nights where heart-warming Italian classics are served.

Casual bites are also available to enjoy in the idyllic garden, which is the setting for live music on Friday nights from November to April.

9. Willa

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 17a High Street, Willunga

a barista taking orders at the counter, Willa Coffee Shop, McLaren Vale

Grab a takeaway cup at Willa Coffee Shop. (Image: Folk Haus Visuals)

Start the day right at this quaint coffee shop, which has a down-to-earth community vibe in a heritage Willunga building. The menu celebrates all things Australian, particularly from small growers and artisans.

Choose from an all-day brekkie, loaded sandwiches and bagels, or wholesome bowls. There are housemade ingredients throughout including dukkah, bechamel sauce, and beans. Much of the produce is sourced locally such as Willunga Meats, The Sourdough Story and Onkaparinga Creamery, with juices from The Garden Farmers, kombucha by Gather Brewing and all-important coffee from Altura.

10. McLaren Vale Hotel

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 208 Main Rd, McLaren Vale

There’s nothing more cockle-warming than a meal in a country pub, and this one is a beauty. Built in 1857 as The Clifton Hotel, the historic building underwent several extensions and became The Bellevue Hotel until the mid-1900s, and more recently underwent a beautiful restoration as McLaren Vale Hotel. Its charming ironstone walls and brickwork meld with modern features such as a marble bar and contemporary furniture.

But we’re all here for the pub grub: think burgers, schnitties and fish and chips alongside scotch egg, braised lamb and ploughman’s platters. The warm hospitality and casual dining here have earned the establishment several nods at the Australian Hotel Awards.

11. CLINK at Tintara

 Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 202 Main Road, McLaren Vale

sandwiches, fries and drinks at CLINK at Tintara, McLaren Vale

CLINK’s menu is inspired by global street food.

Adjacent to McLaren Vale Hotel, CLINK started as a pop-up in collaboration with Tintara Wines but is now firmly on the to-do lists of anyone seeking a lively atmosphere to eat, drink and listen to good music.

Set on the lawns of Tintara, CLINK has been dubbed McLaren Vale’s biggest beer garden and is open on weekends. The simple menu comprises street-style foods, including sandwiches, grazing platters, a kids’ menu and even options for your dog. Unwind under the fig trees and listen to the regular live music performed by homegrown artists or check out the calendar on the website to see what special events are being held.

12. Vale Restaurant and Bar

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 128 Ingoldby Rd, McLaren Flat

a close-up of food at Vale Restaurant and Bar

Indulge in produce-driven gastronomic delights. (Image: Vale Restaurant and Bar)

Set atop a hill in Blewitt Springs, this restaurant and bar shares the same bucolic property as the family-owned winery Beresford Estate. It makes for a fabulous lunch spot – with the whole family including kids and pets – thanks to its sweeping vineyard views.

The local produce-focused menu is designed to share, with starters such as Coffin Bay oysters and beef tartare to large hearty plates such as a 1.4-kilogram Tasmanian smoked lamb shoulder.

Home to Vale Brewing, it’d be remiss not to book a beer flight to sample the refreshing ales and lagers. Wine, gin and whisky tastings are also available.

Originally written by Alexis Buxton-Collins with updates by Megan Arkinstall

From secluded hilltop retreats to off-grid cabins and a beautifully restored mill, these are the most luxurious places to stay in McLaren Vale.

Wedged between lush rolling hills and the sparkling blue sea, McLaren Vale is Australia’s most naturally beautiful wine region. It’s the kind of place that begs you to toast the sunset after a day spent touring the local wineries and restaurants, and the best spot to do that is at one of the opulent retreats dotted around the idyllic valley.

Whether you’re dreaming of sinking into an outdoor bath while enjoying expansive hilltop views or going off-grid and immersing yourself in the bush, these McLaren Vale luxury accommodation options will make you wish you could stay just a few more days.

1. Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

lush greenery surrounding Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

The shiraz-lined Beresford Estate boasts bucolic views. (Image: Supplied)

Nestled among 28 hectares of vines, this collection of suites and villas on Beresford Estate combines bucolic views, luxury and cosiness. Lining the 35-year-old shiraz vines, the studio plan Reserve Suites are comfortable and elegantly appointed, featuring kitchenettes, lounge areas, spacious bathrooms stocked with Australian-made products, a plush queen bed and a private deck overlooking the vines.

The Grand Reserve Suites are slightly larger, with a private bedroom, bathtub and an outdoor area with a plunge pool with sweeping vineyard views. The Shiraz Villa is another studio suite with a four-poster bed for a romantic vibe, while the Grenache Villa is housed in a historic 19th-century cottage and can sleep six – perfect for a group of friends. Guests receive a tasty selection of breakfast provisions to enjoy each morning.

While the accommodation is near some excellent wineries and dining options, you can meander to the sleek onsite Vale Restaurant, which doubles as a microbrewery. Or spend an afternoon in the Tasting Room with a cheese platter and some award-winning Beresford Estate wines, inside by the fireplace or on the deck in the sunshine.

Address: 252 Blewitt Springs Rd, McLaren Flat

2. Rare Earth Retreats

an outdoor tub at Rare Earth Retreats, McLaren Vale

Relax in the outdoor tub while admiring vineyard views. (Image: Supplied)

Opened in November 2024, Rare Earth Retreats is McLaren Vale’s newest stay, offering a luxury, off-grid experience with an exceptionally chic design. Each of the three retreats is inspired by the elements of stone, clay and slate and powered entirely by the sun, fed completely by rainwater and celebrates local craftsmanship. The South Australian artists from creative hub JamFactory designed and crafted the exclusive pieces to fit within these spaces.

The retreats are each fitted with a king bed, kitchen and spacious bathroom, indoor and outdoor fireplace, outdoor bath, and private decks with sweeping views of McLaren Vale. Breakfast provisions are included, with in-house massages, facials and private yoga classes are also available.

Address: 23 Coppermine Rd, McLaren Vale

3. Hillenvale

a look inside the living room at Hillenvale, Kangarilla

Relax in this cosy and sleek stone cottage. (Image: Jonathan van der Knaap)

At the junction of Adelaide Hills and McLaren Vale, this rugged and secluded property is home to a charming stone cottage that makes for a cosy couple’s retreat. Set on a hillside, with views of the surrounding landscape where kangaroos and sheep roam freely, you’ll feel as though you’ve truly escaped to the country. The cottage features a full ‘country kitchen’, lounge, fireplace and outdoor deck, and is styled in a calming neutral palette with exquisite furnishings.

Also on the property, a vine-covered 1859-built homestead is undergoing a meticulous restoration and will be available to book soon. The homestead boasts five bedrooms, a kitchen and dining room, a lounge, a study and a wine cellar, so will be an idyllic stay for families and groups.

Address: 194 Cut Hill Rd, Kangarilla

4. Shadow Creek

the living room interior of Shadow Creek, McLaren Vale

The eight-hectare Shadow Creek property is perfect for families. (Image: Sabine Verhack Photography)

In the heart of McLaren Vale, this stay is perched on a crest of the eight-hectare Shadow Creek vineyard property. From every window, you’ll spy vineyards, rolling hills and even ocean views but not another soul – because you’re the only guests.

The two-person suite has a king bed, a double shower and a deep soaking bath, a living area with a double fireplace, a full kitchen and a deck with a barbecue, from where you can take in those vistas. Guests receive a delicious grazing plate filled with local goodies.

The winery’s cellar door is set to open early 2025 and is nestled among gums on Turraparri Creek, which runs through the property. Guests can visit for a tasting, arrange a massage on the deck, have a gourmet picnic in the vineyard or be whisked away by helicopter to lunch somewhere in the Vale.

Address: Cnr Edwards Rd and Jackson Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

5. The Vineyard Retreat

the exterior lounge deck at The Vineyard Retreat in McLaren Vale

Spend your next luxury escape in The Vineyard Retreat.

The Vineyard McLaren Vale is a six-hectare working vineyard with six accommodation options to stay in, each with its own unique character.

There are two chic tiny homes set on the edge of the shiraz block, with a studio layout featuring a king bed, wood fireplace and underfloor heating. And four luxuriously appointed guesthouses, including The Ardmore which sleeps two people and has views out to the Chapel Hill ridgeline, and The Highland which sleeps four in two bedrooms and boasts a wraparound balcony.

All stays include a complimentary mini-bar and breakfast provisions. There is also a range of experiences to book through The Vineyard including a scenic helicopter flight with lunch and a guided wine and gourmet tour of McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills.

Address: 165 Whitings Rd, Blewitt Springs

6. Vale194

Retreat into this rustic abode. (Image: Harry Vick)

Smack bang in the heart of McLaren Vale, on Main Street, these five self-contained cottages ooze charm with a bluestone exterior but are ultra-modern inside. Behind a rustic wooden gate, the two-storey, three-bedroom stays boast spacious kitchens, dining and lounge areas, and full laundries. They have heated floors for the cooler months and cute outdoor courtyards with barbecues for warm evenings.

An ideal option for families or groups of friends, Vale194 is within walking distance of the town’s restaurants and wine bars, and next to the entrance of the Shiraz Trail, a flat bike path that runs from McLaren Vale to Willunga, connecting cellar doors.

Address: 1-5/194 Main Rd McLaren Vale

7. Weemilah Luxury Retreat

Perched 200 metres above the valley floor at the southern end of the Vale, this off-grid sanctuary looks out over the entire region. The large open plan living area has slate floors, a wood-burning stove and floor-to-ceiling windows to maximise the views, while the two king bedrooms each have an en suite and private deck so you can enjoy the surrounds in solitude.

There’s plenty of wildlife on the 52-acre property thanks to 15000 native trees and shrubs, and the epic views get even better when seen through a curtain of mist rising from the deep outdoor soaking tub or on a helicopter tour led by one of the property’s owners, who can drop you off for lunch at one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants.

Address: 187 Delabole Rd, Willunga

8. Hotel California Road

Huge bath looking out a large glass window at Hotel California Road in McLaren Vale.

Relax in the freestanding bath with a glass of vino. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission/Josie Withers)

From the outside, this luxurious micro-hotel looks like a chaotic Jenga tower made from shipping containers stacked on top of one another, but inside it’s a different story.

Each of the three 50 square metre king suites is immaculately appointed with a futuristic floating king bed, a soaking tub (with a wine glass holder) flanked by floor-to-ceiling windows and a large deck just metres from the vines.

The adults-only policy makes it the perfect spot for a relaxing escape and if you don’t feel like driving to the local wineries, the Inkwell cellar door is directly above the suites so it’s easy to wander back after a leisurely tasting and raid the well-stocked minibar.

Address: 377 California Rd, Tatachilla

9. Ukiyo House

Ukiyo House makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber. (Image: Jenah Piwanski)

With a semicircle of limestone cliffs ringing a perfect aquamarine bay and one of McLaren Vale’s best restaurants, Port Willunga is understandably busy in summer. Not that you’d know it if you’re staying at this blissful hideaway just 300 metres away.

The immaculately appointed single-bedroom house is an oasis of tranquillity that makes liberal use of natural materials including charred shou sugi ban timber, rammed earth walls and Venetian plastering.

Kayaks and beach equipment make it easy to explore the beach, but the modern kitchen is equipped with everything down to scales and measuring cups and a welcome pack of local gin, wine, granola and almonds alongside a candle with the retreat’s signature scent (bergamot and pine) mean it’s just as tempting to stay in and relax and enjoy the serenity.

Address: 37 Martin St, Port Willunga

10. CABN X

CABN X is a step up from most of the off-grid offerings around Australia.

Down a dirt road from the Gemtree cellar door on McLaren Vale’s quieter western side, these two cabins are a serious step up from most of the off-grid offerings popping up around the country.

While one is clad in blond timber and the other opts for a darker palette, each has a spacious bedroom, kitchen and bathroom with mirrors that unfrost at the touch of a button, as well as a sauna looking out over the surrounding vineyards.

Even better is the giant outdoor bath that’s roomy enough for two people to sit comfortably while being serenaded by native birds, while the moon window above the bed means you can fall asleep looking up at the stars.

Address: 796 Main Road, McLaren Vale

11. The Old Chaff Mill Retreat

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat in McLaren Vale

The Old Chaff Mill Retreat is truly a place of rest and relaxation. (Image: South Australian Tourism Commission)

Old meets new at this lovingly restored 1872 chaff mill on an organic, biodynamic property set amid lush vineyards, and olive and almond groves.

Comprising two buildings, The Granary and The Millery, these two palatial suites (one is 90 square metres, the other 120) are built with thick stone walls and soundproof doors, and packed with antique fittings such as a chandelier made from a two-metre long pine winnower that harks back to the venue’s original use.

Nowadays, it’s well and truly a place of rest and relaxation thanks to features such as loft bedrooms, outdoor baths and record players, as well as an onsite day spa offering a range of treatments.

Address: 371 Plains Rd, Sellicks Hill

12. The Jetty

Interior of The Jetty Port Willunga with water views

The apartments are bathed in light. (Image: The Jetty Port Willunga)

When it comes to beach views, you can’t beat these four waterfront apartments in Port Willunga. Fortunately, it’s easy to share them, thanks to large open-plan dining areas designed for entertaining and downstairs apartments that have two bedrooms each.

Address: 16 Esplanade, Port Willunga

13. Altamira

Altamira is surrounded by grapes and gums.

Surrounded by grapes and gums in the rolling hills near McLaren Vale’s northern border, this spacious property is perfect for larger groups.

Three bedrooms with en suites and a studio apartment with its own kitchen and living area are connected by a spacious shared entertaining area decorated in a sophisticated mid-century style.

Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise views out over the surrounding shiraz vines, but no matter your tipple, the wraparound verandah is the go-to spot for sundowners before heading back inside to tackle one of the many board games supplied by the owners.

Address: 351 Chapel Hill Rd, McLaren Vale

12 McLaren Vale restaurants to book for delectable dining

This article was originally written by Alexis Buxton-Collins with updates by Megan Arkinstall.

From breezy Mediterranean fare with world-class views to stunning modern Asian flavours and cutting-edge regional dining, these McLaren Vale restaurants will satiate all tastebuds.

The shortlist

1. The Little Rickshaw

2. Maxwell Wines

3. Salopian Inn

4. Frankie

5. Muni

6. Star of Greece

7. Vigna Bottin

8. Fiore

9. Willa

10. McLaren Vale Hotel

11. CLINK at Tintara

12. Vale Restaurant and Bar

15 of the best McLaren Vale wineries to suit every taste

The only McLaren Vale wineries guide you need to read

Top 20 things to do in McLaren Vale

The ultimate McLaren Vale accommodation guide

Luxury accommodation in McLaren Vale to splurge on now

From secluded hilltop retreats to off-grid cabins and a beautifully restored mill, these are the most luxurious places to stay in McLaren Vale.

1. Beresford Estate Suites and Villas

2. Rare Earth Retreats

3. Hillenvale

4. Shadow Creek

5. The Vineyard Retreat

6. Vale194

7. Weemilah Luxury Retreat

8. Hotel California Road

9. Ukiyo House

10. CABN X

11. The Old Chaff Mill Retreat

12. The Jetty

13. Altamira