Geelong is a treasure trove of indulgence that promises to nourish your soul and tantalise your tastebuds.
Locals and travellers alike rave about the region’s finest dining establishments. From traditional pubs to quaint Italian eateries, Geelong’s vibrant culinary scene invites you to embark on a journey of comforting gastronomic discovery.
Here are some of our favourites for when the cold really starts to hit.
Carb-loaded pasta at Lipari
Lipari, Geelong’s culinary gem, pays homage to the traditions of Italy with its irresistible pasta – is there anything actually more comforting?
Embrace the nostalgia of family recipes as you choose your preferred pasta – whether it’s Penne, Spaghetti, or Homemade Gnocchi – and pair it with an Italian sauce that dreams are made of. From classic Bolognese to the Chef’s Special Bacon, Spring Onions and chicken, Lipari’s pasta symphony is a harmonious blend of comfort and taste that will transport you to the heart of Italy.
Our pick: For a true winter warming hit, opt for the Calabrese sauce, with hot salami and olives in a tomato based sauce. Bellissimo!
Where: 10 Union St, Geelong
Southern-inspired burgers and more at Pistol Pete’s
For those yearning for a taste of the Southern States, Pistol Pete’s is the ultimate destination.
Indulge in their extensive burger selection, from the mouthwatering Mojo Burger to the Cajun Burger’s fiery embrace. But the pièce de résistance is the Triple Cheeseburger – a towering masterpiece that has earned Pistol Pete’s its burger royalty status. And if burgers aren’t your calling, fear not, for their Southern Style fried chicken, Gumbo, and tempting sides await to delight your senses. Plus, here you can get your Southern fried chicken on house made buttermilk waffle with aunt jemima syrup and whipped butter with your choice of breast or thigh fillet… doesn’t get much better than that!
For a real treat, you’ve just got to try the Gumbo – a New Orleans style soup, that comes with chicken, andouille sausage & shrimp. Together with the “Holy Trinity”, celery, capsicum and onion, a dark roux and packed with flavour. This is a taste of Louisiana.
Where: 93 Little Malop St, Geelong
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Cheesey Indulgences at Splatters
Cheese lovers rejoice at Splatters, a sushi-train stye cheese venue where an interactive cheese and charcuterie dining experience awaits.
Here the menu also boasts a variety of hot cheese-based dishes. Think saganaki, halloumi burger and a baked pear stuffed with shadows of blue cheese, toasted almonds and drizzled with bellarine honey, plus a selection of cheesy toasties, arancini, Swiss-style fondue, and traditional raclette served over roasted potatoes, with sweet and spicy pickles, midnight ham, and crusty bread.
Plus, there’s a five Cheese Mac ‘N’ Cheese and loaded baked brie, the ultimate comfort foods.
Where: 168-170 Pakington St, Geelong West
Soul-warming ramen at Sober
In the heart of Little Malop Street lies Sober Ramen, where the humble bowl of ramen becomes an exquisite culinary experience.
With a menu curated by ramen connoisseurs, Sober Ramen takes you on a journey through Japanese flavours. From the Yasai Udon and the Seafood Ramen to the Spicy Ramen and Black Garlic Ramen, each bowl is a testament to the art of ramen-making. Our personal favourite is the spicy Dumplings ramen which combines the best of both worlds. There’s also ramen plates, Wagyu Don, and a bunch of vegetarian options too.
The intimate setting and carefully crafted menu make this spot a must-visit for any ramen aficionado.
Hot tip: Start with the spicy calamari and sake for the true Sober experience.
Where: 85 Little Malop St, Geelong
Curry of the Day at Cafe Go
Make your way to Cafe Go, where a wondrous embrace of comfort awaits. A classic dish, their Curry of the Day is a testament to culinary creativity, offering a rotating selection that ranges from classic favourites to exotic delights. Each bowl brims with soul-soothing goodness.
And don’t forget, they have more than just curries! The talented chefs whip up hearty, chef-made meals, like cinnamon porridge (poached nacho pear, honey toffee shard, Goji berries, orange zest labneh (vegan & GF) and hot Proud Mary Coffee.
Where: 37 Bellerine St, Geelong
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Parmis and Beyond at Murphys
Imagine a plate that’s not just a meal, but a hearty embrace. The chicken parmigiana, with its layers of succulent chicken, rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb coating, encapsulates the essence of comfort food and you’ll find one of the best at Murphys. They have perfected the combination of tender chicken, hearty sauce, and gooey cheese, creating a comforting sensation that warms you from the inside out.
With a range of toppings and styles to choose from, from traditional to Hawaiian, your parmi cravings will be satisfied.
Where: 30 Aberdeen St, Geelong West
Greek Comfort Food at Mavs
Greek cuisine shines bright at Mavs, where heartwarming dishes take centre stage.
The Meat Platter to share is a real Greek journey offering a warmth that transcends seasons. Packed with dips and pita bread to start, the platter is loaded with lamb cutlets, biftekia, lamb souvlaki, chicken souvlaki, lamb gyros, chicken gyros and lemon potatoes. All this served with tzatziki, Greek salad and lemon, and you’ll the chill in no time. Prepare to be transported to Greece through the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of Mavs.
Other dishes that we recommend trying include local mussels sautéed in a red sauce with garlic reduced with white wine and chilli; Kleftiko (Slow cooked lamb served with vegetables, lemon potatoes and a gravy sauce) and Mousaka (Traditional oven baked layers of potato, zucchini, eggplant, mince and béchamel sauce served with crisp garden salad and a lemon potato). Plus, there’s haloumi. The most heartwarming dish of all!
Where: 73A Little Malop St, Geelong
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Sizzling Steak at Emerge
Emerge Dining, known for its premium steaks, is a haven for comfort seekers. With a focus on quality and flavour, their range of expertly prepared wagyu, full blood wagyu, 100% grass fed as well as in house dry aged steaks will melt away the chill. With a variety of cuts to choose from, order your steak to your liking and pair it with a sauce (we love the creamy blue cheese!). Be sure to add on some sides for a truly indulgent experience, like the broccolini, mac and cheese, charred carrots (with honey and dukkah) and the hand cut chips cooked in wagyu fat.
For the true winter treat, finish with the Sticky Date Pudding and a glass of shiraz.
Whether you opt for a classic steak or explore their diverse menu, Emerge promises a culinary experience that ignites the senses.
Where: 112 Ryrie St, Geelong
Whether you’re a local seeking comfort or a curious traveller exploring new tastes, the region’s vibrant culinary scene has something to offer every palate. To discover the region, head to the Visit Geelong Bellarine website.
