8 of the best Port Fairy restaurants to visit on your next trip

By Jo Stewart
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From a lively pizza joint with a big personality to a classic pub with a long and storied history, there are plenty of Port Fairy restaurants to choose from on your next trip along the Great Ocean Road.

Whether you’re after a seafood feast, hearty pub lunch or a fine dining experience with an elevated wine list, there are plenty of Port Fairy restaurants to choose from. Got your heart set on having dinner somewhere special? Be sure to follow the cardinal rule of visiting a coastal holiday hotspot and make a booking or you’ll risk missing out.

1. Merrijig Kitchen

The Merrijig Inn’s famous restaurant is much more than a place to eat, it’s a local institution. Chef Tanya Connellan has cooked professionally for more than 30 years, and it shows.

the exterior of Merrijig Kitchen, Port Fairy

Merrijig Kitchen is a local institution. (Image: Visit Victoria)

An ever-changing menu enables Tanya to showcase whatever is flourishing in her kitchen garden or local growers and producers bring to the table, whether that be organic asparagus grown nearby in Warrnambool or crayfish caught in the seas just off Port Fairy.

friends dining al fresco at Merrijig Kitchen, Port Fairy

Let the good times roll at Merrijig Kitchen. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Once you enter the cosy dining room you’ll be treated like an old friend. So kick back, relax, order a bottle of Victorian red and let the good times roll.

al fresco dining in a garden setting at Merrijig Kitchen, Port Fairy

Nab an outdoor table in the garden. (Image: Visit Victoria)

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Quaint

Location 1 Campbell Street, Port Fairy

2. Sidro Bar & Restaurant

Found inside the Oak & Anchor Hotel, this bar and restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a top spot for dinner and drinks, rain or shine. Choose something light like grilled halloumi and a grain salad or go all-in by sharing the slow-cooked lamb shoulder or beef brisket (both perfect for splitting between two diners). Can’t decide? Hand the reins to the chef by opting for the three-course feasting menu. Add a gin and tonic made with Gallivanter Gin from Western Victoria and you’ve got yourself a party.

a fine dining table setup at Sidro Bar & Restaurant, Port Fairy

Dine in style at Sidro Bar & Restaurant. (Image: Joanne O’Keefe @missfarmerjojo)

Cuisine:  Classic pub-style cuisine with a modern twist

Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed and inviting

Location: 9 Bank Street, Port Fairy

3. Blakes Restaurant

This much-loved eatery is well known for producing some of the best seafood dishes in the region. Open for lunch and dinner, make a booking well in advance to make sure you don’t miss out, especially if you’re visiting on the weekend or other busy periods. From Bass Strait scallops to yellowtail kingfish and Bellarine mussels, you’ll be treated to the greatest hits of the Australian seafood scene here. Not sure what to order? You can’t go wrong with the Seafood Chowder, a signature dish that consistently gets rave reviews.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Price: $$$

Atmosphere: Casual elegance

Location: 57 Bank St, Port Fairy

4. Coffin Sally

A little corner of Port Fairy that was once home to a coffin maker and an undertaker is where you’ll find this aptly named cult pizza joint and bar. Its bluestone walls, old fireplace and shelves decorated with bleached animal bones signal this isn’t your average pizzeria.

the dining interior of Coffin Sally, Port Fairy

Slip into the rustic and classy setting at Coffin Sally.

Craving something salty? Order the ‘A Salted’ for a hit of Napoli with mozzarella, peppers, anchovies, olives, capers, parsley and chilli. Prefer something simpler? The Fior Di Sally’s simple flavour combo of fior di latte mozzarella, cherry tomato, extra virgin olive oil and fresh basil will do the trick.

sprinkling spices over pizza at Coffin Sally

Coffin Sally isn’t your average pizzeria.

Cuisine: Italian

Price: $$

Atmosphere: Rustic and cosy

Location: 33 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

5.  Bottega Toscana

The simple yet delicious flavours of Tuscany can be found on the Victorian coast thanks to this friendly, little trattoria on Bank Street. Start with some antipasti then move on to Tuscan culinary greats like Risotto dell’Orto (garden vegetable risotto) or Pollo Alla Pizzaiola (chicken thigh in Napoli sauce with mozzarella). All the usual Italian sweet suspects can be found on the dessert list (tiramisu, pannacotta, affogato) too. Bellissima!

the exterior of Bottega Toscana, Port Fairy

Dine on Tuscan flavours at Bottega Toscana.

Cuisine: Tuscan

Price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Rustic and cosy

Location: 26 Bank Street, Port Fairy

6. The Stump

Established way back in 1844, the Caledonian Inn is a Port Fairy landmark well worth visiting and the good news is that you don’t need to be staying at the inn to enjoy lunch or dinner at The Stump. Serving hearty pub fare like steak sandwiches, beef burgers and chicken schnitzels, the Stump excels at delivering all the country pub classics you’d expect from one of the state’s oldest pubs.

a meal at The Stump, Port Fairy

The Stump serves up hearty pub fare.

During summer, make the most of warmer weather by perching yourself at an outdoor table to enjoy some ales and a meal in the sunshine. In winter, head to the dining room to feast by the warmth of the rustic fireplace.

a bowl of food at The Stump, Port Fairy

Perch yourself at an outdoor table to enjoy a meal.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Charming

Location: 41 Bank Street, Port Fairy

7. Conlan’s Wine Store

Food and wine lovers should not miss experiencing a meal at Conlan’s Wine Store. Make a lunch or dinner booking at this popular spot and you’ll be treated to carefully crafted dishes and an exceptional wine list worth paying a bit more for.

the dining interior of Conlan’s Wine Store, Port Fairy

Conlan’s Wine Store evokes a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

Housed in a heritage building full of character, this restaurant and retail store stocking wine and gourmet produce is a must-visit whether it’s for brunch, lunch, dinner or takeaway wines and treats.

holding drinks over a spread of food on the table at Conlan’s Wine Store, Port Fairy

Make a lunch or dinner booking at Conlan’s Wine Store.

Pro tip: leave room for dessert (the affogato made with Market Lane Coffee is top-notch).

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Price: $$-$$$

Atmosphere: Sophisticated yet relaxed

Location: 34 Bank Street, Port Fairy

8. Lemongrass Thai

Bangkok may be more than 7000 kilometres away, but you can still get the flavours of Thailand at this friendly neighbourhood favourite. Treat your tastebuds to a spicy and sour seafood Tom Yum, coconutty jungle curry or light and fresh larb gai (chicken salad). Then cool down with some black sticky rice topped with Thai custard and coconut milk. Can’t be bothered leaving your accommodation? Order takeaway for delivery right to your doorstep.

Cuisine: Thai

Price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location:  55 Bank Street, Port Fairy

Now read our 3-day driving itinerary for the Great Ocean Road.

Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature, pop culture, music, art, design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria. When not writing, you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops, antique stores and garage sales.
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Your guide to the best Port Fairy accommodation

    By Jo Stewart
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    Charming inns, bell tent glamping, stylish holiday homes, heritage pub stays and cruisy caravan parks, there’s a wealth of Port Fairy accommodation options to choose from.

    Any Great Ocean Road trip needs to include a visit to Port Fairy. Home to a wealth of well-preserved heritage buildings, this historic fishing village honours its past while also welcoming the new. When choosing where to stay, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Whether you’re splashing out on a celebratory weekend to remember or planning a budget family break by the sea, there are lots of Port Fairy accommodation options to suit you.

    Hotels

    1. Merrijig Inn

    Best for: Food and wine lovers

    A little microcosm of magic, the Merrijig Inn is one of those inviting places with a special aura of its own.

    the exterior of Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy

    The Merrijig Inn is said to be Victoria’s oldest inn. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Laying claim to being Victoria’s oldest inn, a stay in one of the charming suites or compact attic rooms (not recommended for tall folk) includes a smorgasbord breakfast of house-made delights.

    a dining room with a fireplace at Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy

    Keep warm by the fireplace. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    No visit is complete without a tipple at the convivial front bar and dinner at Merrijin Kitchen – food is an important chapter of this hospitality legend’s story.

    the entrance to Merrijig Inn, Port Fairy

    Step into the Merrijig Kitchen next door. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Address: 1 Campbell St, Port Fairy

    2. Seacombe House

    Best for: History lovers

    From motor inn suites to historic cottages and rooms in a heritage-listed guesthouse, Seacombe House has lots of different styles of accommodation to choose from.

    the exterior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy

    Stay in a heritage-listed guesthouse.

    Like many other buildings in this storied town, Seacombe House is listed on the National Trust, so when you stay here you’ll be walking in the footsteps of the traders, sailors and merchants who earned a crust living or visiting Port Fairy in centuries gone by.

    the living room interior of Seacombe House, Port Fairy

    Seacombe House offers a cosy spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

    Address: 22 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

    3. The Victoria Apartments

    Best for: Travellers who prefer self-catering holidays

    If you love having all the creature comforts of home while you’re away, try Victoria Apartments. Book a 2-bedroom apartment or 3-bedroom townhouse here and you’ll enjoy access to a range of amenities that will make you feel right at home. Use the large, well-equipped kitchen to cook meals, do a load of washing in the laundry, relax in the spacious lounge room while watching movies on the flatscreen TV and park your wheels in a lock-up garage – these apartments have everything you need for a comfortable break.

    Address: 48/50 Bank Street, Port Fairy

    4. The Oak & Anchor Hotel

    Best for: Couples and solo travellers looking to enjoy an adults-only break

    Although this heritage-listed hotel dates back to the mid-1800s, you’ll bed down in supreme comfort. Choose from seven stylish suites (most with freestanding bathtubs and Euro-style walk-in showers) ranging from the ground-floor Anchor Suite all the way up to the luxurious Bridal Suite.

    a Euro-style walk-in shower with tub at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy

    The stylish suite boasts spacious, Euro-inspired bathrooms. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    If you’re after an adults-only retreat, you’ll be pleased to know this boutique accommodation is just for grownups.

    the bed at The Oak & Anchor Hotel, Port Fairy

    Experience ultimate comfort and relaxation in the beautifully designed beds. (Image: Visit Victoria)

    Address: 9 Bank Street, Port Fairy

    5. Central Motel

    Best for: Visitors who value convenience and affordability.

    Located right in the centre of town just 25 metres or so from some of Port Fairy’s best restaurants and cafes, you can’t beat Central Motel for convenience. If you’re watching your pennies, this neat and tidy motel has all the basics covered at an affordable price point. Looking for accessible accommodation? There’s a ground-floor, wheelchair-friendly room perfect for travellers with special needs.

    Address: 56 Sackville Street, Port Fairy

    6. YHA Port Fairy

    Best for: Budget-conscious travellers who are happy sharing communal spaces

    If you love meeting other people and staying in places with a more communal vibe, YHA Port Fairy is just the place for you. This warm and welcoming heritage accommodation has shared ‘co-living’ rooms with bunk beds, family rooms and private rooms as well as shared spaces like a self-catering kitchen, communal lounge room, laundry, pool table and outdoor courtyard with a barbecue. Perhaps the best part is you’re just one block away from some of Port’s Fairy best eats, including killer cocktails and pizza at Coffin Sally on Sackville Street.

    Address: 8 Cox Street, Port Fairy

    Guesthouses and Airbnbs

    7. Cherry Plum Cottages

    Best for: People seeking a secluded break in the countryside.

    This collection of cute, self-contained cottages surrounded by greenery is the ideal spot to get away from it all.

    the living room interior at Cherry Plum Cottages

    This rustic abode is designed with a cosy interior.

    Take a wander through the gardens (don’t forget to say hi to the alpacas), prepare dinner on the barbecue and sit on the veranda in the morning and listen to the birdlife with a cup of tea in hand – this is the perfect place to enjoy living life in the slow lane.

    breakfast by the garden at Cherry Plum Cottages

    Spend early mornings in quiet contemplation.

    Address: 37 Albert Road, Port Fairy

    8. Sweet Tide O Moyne

    Best for: Groups, families and pet owners.

    If you want to plan a private break with your nearest and dearest, look no further than this well-appointed holiday house.

    the outdoor deck at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    This charming beach-style cottage is just steps from East Beach.

    Sleeping up to nine guests, this comfy home right by East Beach has all the mod cons needed for an independent, self-catered break.

    a painting mounted on the wall with a vase below at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    The walls are adorned with paintings of the beach.

    Use the Nespresso machine to make your morning coffee, cook up a banging lunch in the kitchen and use the barbecue to prepare dinner each night while everyone gathers around the firepit.  Board games, books and a travel cot make this holiday house perfect for a family getaway.

    a close-up shot of the bed at Sweet Tide O Moyne, Port Fairy

    This chic accommodation is a holiday haven for families.

    Address: 1 Moyne Court, Port Fairy

    9. Clonmara Country House & Cottages

    Best for: Couples and small groups looking for a quiet and cosy country retreat full of charm.

    Soak up the serenity at this historic country house and cottages located just outside the historic town centre. If you value the classic ‘cottage-core’ aesthetic and love wandering in country-style gardens, you will be in your element here. A top spot for a quiet, gentle break where you can truly relax, Clonmara Country House & Cottages is the type of place to enjoy lazy afternoons reading a paperback in the shade and cosy nights drinking wine by the warmth of the gas log fire. Bliss!

    the Clonmara Country House & Cottages in Port Fairy

    Settle into a cosy country retreat.

    Address: 106 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    Camping Grounds

    10. Port Fairy Glamping

    Best for: Couples and friends looking for a whimsical weekend away.

    If you love the idea of camping but don’t want to truly rough it, enjoy the best of both worlds with Port Fairy Glamping. Forget struggling to pitch a tent, this local outfit will set up a romantic bell tent in a grassy area of one of Port Fairy’s caravan parks for you.

    Inside you’ll find plush bedding, towels, lamps, rugs and cushions to ensure you’ll enjoy a comfy stay. An outdoor table setting means you’re set to enjoy sundowners and snacks after a day exploring Port Fairy’s historic buildings and windswept beaches.

    a Port Fairy Glamping tent

    Spend a whimsical weekend in a Port Fairy Glamping tent.

    Caravan Parks

    11. Gardens Caravan Park

    Best for: Visitors who value access to the river, beach and town centre.

    When it comes to convenience, this caravan park’s location can’t be beaten. Sitting on the banks of the Moyne River, it’s just 600 metres from the centre of town and also right near East Beach and the botanic gardens.

    the Gardens Caravan Park at sunrise

    Gardens Caravan Park is spread along the banks of the Moyne River.

    Check in to a cabin to enjoy some creature comforts or roll into a powered or unpowered site if you’re travelling with a motorhome or caravan.

    two women walking along the Tower Hill Reserve, Port Fairy

    Be at one with nature as you walk along through the coastal landscape.

    Address: 111 Griffiths St, Port Fairy

    12. Southcombe Caravan Park

    Best for: Beach lovers and families

    If being near the beach is your number one priority this family-friendly caravan park near Southcombe Beach is a winner.

    a boat sailing at Southcombe Caravan Park

    Go fishing by the river near Southcombe Beach.

    Stay in a one-, two- or three-bedroom villa or set up your tent, motorhome or van on one of the powered or unpowered sites. Stroll into town for dinner or use the free barbecues or camp kitchen to whip up dinner each night – the choice is yours.

    a girl lying on a blanket while reading a book

    Or lie on a blanket with a book in hand.

    Address: James St, Port Fairy

    13. Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Best for: Families and groups

    Sure, there’s plenty to do in Port Fairy but this modern holiday park has heaps of amenities to discover too. Big kids and little kids alike will love navigating the mini golf course while the indoor heated swimming pool provides an option for wet weather days.

    a group of travellers gathering outside a caravan at Big4 Port Fairy Holiday Park

    This modern holiday park is an ideal retreat for those travelling in groups.

    There’s even a purpose-built cycling track. This holiday park’s three-bedroom cabins sleep up to eight people making it a top spot for a group getaway or intergenerational holiday.

    Address: 115 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    14. Gum Tree Caravan Park

    Best for: People travelling with pets

    There’s no need to leave your four-legged friends at home as they’re welcome to stay at this dog-friendly caravan park. Guests are well taken care of here with a range of items for hire, including baby chairs, cots, bikes, surfboards and wetsuits.

    Address: 8 Amble Lane (off Toolong Rd) Port Fairy

    15. Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Best for: Visitors who love active breaks

    If you like staying active during your holidays, then this holiday park’s facilities are sure to impress.

    the caravan site at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Port Fairy Holiday Park is perfect for campers and caravanners.

    There’s an indoor heated swimming pool, a full-sized tennis court, a playground and a giant jumping pillow for the little ones.

    a deep-soaking tub inside a safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    The outdoor tub is the perfect way to end the day.

    There are also lots of different accommodation styles ranging from safari tents with deep-soaking, clawfoot baths, deluxe villas and cabins, holiday units and powered and unpowered sites for campers and caravanners.

    the safari tent at Port Fairy Holiday Park

    Seek comfort in a safari tent.

    Address: 139 Princes Hwy, Port Fairy

    Discover the best things to do in Port Fairy.