One day is not enough to see it all. Wow . I totally love it. There's a café where you can take a break and a bite. The staff are wonderful, happy and friendly. A big shout out to Kathy who was The Cherry On Top. Thank you so very much. Totally appreciated .. You. Your kindness meant so much in a world full of grumpy service. 🎉🎖🎉🏆

If you’re heading to Daylesford and think you’ll just “pop in” to the Mill Market—think again. I had to physically usher my mum and sister out after hours of wandering, because we could’ve happily spent the whole day there. This place is a treasure trove. Yes, the vintage wares are incredible—retro furniture, vinyl records, quirky knick-knacks—but it’s not just a nostalgia fest. There’s modern giftware, a garden section with charming outdoor pieces, and even a cozy little café for when your legs give out from browsing. There are toilets on site. One moment I was admiring vintage crystal ware, the next I was face-to-face with a shelf of ventriloquist dolls that were equal parts fascinating and creepy. (Seriously, they looked like they had stories to tell—and not all of them wholesome.) Whether you’re a collector, a curious wanderer, or just someone who loves a good rummage, the Mill Market is a must. Just be warned: time disappears in there.

The Amazing Mill Markets in Daylesford is a treasure trove of vintage and antique goodies, spread over 6 acres with 300+ car spaces. Discover unique items, retro fashion, collectibles and more at this massive indoor market, open daily from 10am-6pm, with an onsite cafe to refuel"

This second-hand market is absolutely incredible — probably the largest in all of Victoria, even bigger than the one in Geelong! 🏺 Every section is so well organized, and you can easily spend an entire day wandering around discovering treasures. From antique furniture and vintage clothes to rare collectibles, there’s just so much to explore. The atmosphere is relaxed yet full of life, with friendly stall owners and lots of hidden gems waiting to be found. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love browsing unique finds, this place is an absolute must-visit when you come to Daylesford. Trust me, you won’t leave empty-handed — or disappointed!

Full of many treasurers . Lots of books, furniture, bric a brac , anything you can imagine. Great outdoor garden nursery full of plants and other surprises.

We visited these aptly named markets 7 years ago in 2018 and we had to revisit again. Being from Perth, WA - we don’t have anything that remotely resembles these incredible markets. So much variety and such quirkiness. We only had 2 hours here but easily spend a couple of days going through everything. We were concerned Our 2 young teenage boys wouldn’t last half an hour but even they found interest and lasted 1.5 hours before they got bored and wanted out. Thankfully the cafe onsite managed to placate them for a tad longer (although the sausage roll did take 20 minutes…) but their nougat made up for it and was amazing! Love the Eiffel Tower and gorilla out front! Will try to squeeze in another visit before we head home.

I have never been anyplace quite like this. I could spend all day and still have not explored all their is to see.

Had high hopes visiting this town for the first time, breakfast was very average, needed a good throw of salt on everything. And very expensive for what you get on the plate. $35 for the big breakfast with about $9 worth of product. Eggs royale was okay but still bland. Not a repeat visit. Got a extra star because it was edible and not burnt.

Lovely place to stop on our recent trip through Daylesford on a chilly August morning. Promptly greeted and shown to a cosy table. Attentive staff were proactive with taking our orders with beverages and meals served quickly. Food was fresh and flavoursome. Yes it was slightly more than we would pay for a Brekky (especially with surcharge) but when you visit somewhere like Daylesford it is to be expected. Would return again based on our experience.

Amazing coffee and hospitality! Had the Biscoff Latte which was incredible. The decor was nice. Staff was great. I’ll be back! Street parking available. Limited seats inside but has a few outdoor tables.

Popped in for breakfast during a short trip to Daylesford. My friend and I thoroughly enjoyed our benedict meals. His the ham, mine the salmon. The eggs were the most perfectly cooked poached eggs I can remember having, seriously. I also had the buttermilk pancakes, I think a cream or a lighter version of the topping would be nice as the dish is very sweet and heavy but I still enjoyed it. I also loved my chai latte. The service was great and ambience lovely.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Unexpected Gem – The Best Burger We've Ever Had?! 🍔💚 While exploring the quiet town of Daylesford and looking for a brunch spot, we stumbled across Larder Café — and wow, are we glad we did. With such limited food options in town, we weren’t expecting much, but Larder truly blew us away. We were warmly welcomed by a lovely staff member who seated us right away. We started with their matcha lattes, and to our surprise, they were fantastic. Smooth, balanced, and beautifully made — not something you'd expect to find in a small country town. Then came brunch... and this is where things got serious. We both ordered the wagyu burger with fries, and I genuinely don’t want to sound like I’m exaggerating — but this burger was arguably the best we’ve ever had. Whatever wagyu blend they’re using, it was absolute perfection: juicy, flavourful, expertly seasoned, and beautifully charred on the outside. Every bite was ridiculously good. The flavour just hit differently — rich, indulgent, and completely unforgettable. We’ve tried our fair share of burgers in Melbourne (which is full of top-tier burger joints), but this unassuming little café in Daylesford has completely stolen our tastebuds. I still catch myself thinking about that burger... it was that good. Huge credit to the team at Larder — we’ll 100% be back next time we’re in town. If you’re in Daylesford and even remotely into burgers, do yourself a favour and try this one. You won’t regret it.

Enjoyed a wonderful brunch today! Food was delicious and coffee was good. Make sure you get the cosy window seat looking out to Vincent St hustle and bustle!

Had a wonderful breakfast at Larder. The hotcakes were a hit with kids and the apple pie porridge was so yummy. I wish I was staying longer in Daylesford so I could have this again tomorrow morning and the next. My husband loved his big breakfast also!

Our visit to The Boathouse Daylesford was memorable. Every dish was beautifully presented, full of flavour, and clearly crafted with care. The lakeside setting added to the charm, and the service was warm, attentive, and professional. A perfect spot for a special meal — highly recommend.

We were looking for an interesting menu for our Wedding Anniversary lunch , on reading Daylesford Boathouses table offerings online, we were excited by what read and with great anticipation made a booking in advance with high hopes of our celebration to come .. Not only were our expectations met they were well and truly exceeded.. The service was amazing and personal, the food sublime, with the balance of ingredients in each dish bringing the taste sensations to life , the presentation of each meal was superb and the afternoon hummed along at a delightful tempo.. In our opinion these talented chefs here could easily hold their own in the very best of iconic restaurants worldwide .. This is a hidden gem, who needs Michelin Star restaurants when you have Daylesford Boathouse

The food was utterly beautiful. The options for the set menu are really broad and there is something for everyone. The service was impeccable and the staff had a can do attitude with a fantastic knowledge of their menu. Thank you Boathouse for having us 🙏

Food is good, just hoping that there are more vegetarian options. We provided the feedback about the time between dishes are too long and the response we got was because we had 4 course therefore our seating is 3 hours. I think a better service restaurant should let customer to determine the pace when consuming food rather than fixating on how long customer should be in the restaurant. Took photos between courses so I know we waited 30 mins between the 1st and the 2nd course. We aren’t the only one waiting around and checking our watches for time tonight.

Review: Disappointing Experience Masked as "Fine Dining" I recently dined at this restaurant with my partner, and unfortunately, the experience left us more confused than satisfied. Upon arrival, we were seated promptly but asked politely if we could move to a nearby table for four by the window. We wanted to enjoy the view and sit next to each other. We were abruptly told it was against “policy” to seat two people at a table for four due to upcoming bookings and because it was supposedly a “fine dining” establishment. We’ve been to many actual fine dining venues — this was not one of them. The tone felt unnecessarily rigid and dismissive. We stayed where we were to avoid a scene, but it was awkward and embarrassing. To make matters worse, during our entire visit, only six other people came in, and several tables remained empty. So much for the bookings. As for the food: My partner ordered the lamb rack, which was meant to be tender and fall off the bone. Instead, it was undercooked and raw in the center — not acceptable at any level of dining. I had the barramundi with curried sauce and rice. The salmon itself was beautifully cooked with a perfect crispy skin. However, the portion was tiny — easily the smallest piece of barramundi I’ve ever been served. The rice was filled with peas that clashed with the curry flavour, and the plate featured a giant, swamp-like bok choy (or something similar) that was unwieldy and unappetizing. A simpler, better-composed dish — say, turmeric cous cous and asparagus — would’ve made far more sense. To cap off the evening, when we went to leave, the front door was literally blocked by a red rope. Someone had to come open it for us after we paid — perhaps that was their definition of “fine dining”? I’m still unsure. In the end, it was a confusing and disappointing experience. Whether it's due to a chef lacking taste or an owner too focused on control, something here is definitely off. Sadly, you’ve lost two customers — and potentially more — who genuinely wanted to enjoy their evening and left baffled instead.

Great experienced dining in Boathouse Daylesford, Food was amazing, delicious, plated nicely and well presented, the quality of produce used was absolutely fresh and spectacular . Food was paired perfectly with the wine if you want to choose food with wine pairing. The staff are nice and welcoming. Ambiance is calm and romantic. Highly recommended for any occasions.

Romantic and peaceful place, my partner and I were really happy with the team and the service they did. We didn't ask any names, but we think everyone did a wonderful job. The food was delicious (we took duck fat with Quail, delightful with the chips, and for the main we took the duck with potato/carrot and the losbter with risoni, soooo good 🤤🤤) and the cocktails were amazing (Hugo spritz and the bee's knees, the bee's knees my god 🤤🤤🤤)

Nice little cafe with great food options. We had the congee, which was very tasty and seasoned well. It had similar seasoning and taste to an authentic one, but they had their "Pancho" twist on it. This is our second time here visiting, and the congee has always hit the spot! Keen to try their other foods! Great vibes and a good selection of drinks as well! Highly recommend if you're looking for a unique place to eat in Daylesford.

We ate here in n the recommendation of our son, a local. So glad we did - it was terrific! Pancho is not in the main run of expensive cafes in the middle of town, and relies on fantastic food and great service to bring customers the extra 200 metres to eat. The coffee a food and the food excellent. My partner had the hot cheese salad roll (sounds odd, but a wonderful surprise) and I had the pulled pork roll. Both were excellent and some of the nicest cafe food we have had. Staff were really friendly and competent. Lovely country atmosphere without the touristy vibe. We will be back!

Pancho Cafe in Daylesford is a hidden gem for food lovers! The menu offers a fantastic variety of dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The flavors were spot-on, with every dish beautifully presented and packed with taste.

Absolutely! Here's a review using your opening and the dishes you enjoyed: **What a lovely little cafe** with such a beautiful, concise menu and huge, well-balanced flavors. We enjoyed the chicken congee and sardines on toast - both were absolutely beautiful. The congee was comforting and flavorful, with tender chicken and perfectly cooked rice. The sardines were fresh and vibrant, complemented beautifully by the pile of fresh herbs. Pancho Cafe is a must-visit in Daylesford for a delicious and memorable meal.

Small cozy cafe with good selection of brunch and great service. It was my first time to be asked “ Would you like hot milk or cold milk with your tea” How thoughtful. My Turkish egg dish was served with perfect boiled eggs. Nothing to complain here.

This is definitely a gem for the best coffee. Their coffee is smooth and nice to drink. Their food is nice. Roasted lamb is really good, super soft and tasty. This cafe design is very pretty with a very long stairs. They have seating upstairs, downstairs and outdoor. They also have some desserts too and looks really yummy. Staff are very friendly. Will definitely come back for their egg menu. Plenty of parking nearby.

The roast peach and tomato toast (with Jammy eggs and added white anchovies) was a real standout. Turkish eggs were also delicious.

My husband & I enjoyed a double birthday Saturday lunch at Kadota at the end of March. Lovely entry & Japanese themed garden. The decor inside was very tastefully done in typical Japanese style. We had the 5 course set menu. It was tasty with clean, clear Japanese flavours. But the portions were small & especially the chicken main though tasty was a small piece of chicken. That was disappointing especially when it was a pricey meal! We have had tasting menus at 2 hatted restaurants before & the portion size of each course were not this small. My husband was still a bit peckish after the meal ! The waiting staff were very cordial & friendly & Risa was lovely to talk to as well.

From the moment I entered Kadota, I knew I was in for an exceptional experience. The set menu offered a wonderful journey through Japanese cuisine, with every dish prepared with great care and attention to detail. The service was outstanding, professional yet warm and welcoming, making the evening even more enjoyable. Every dish was explained clearly, including the ingredients. The unique cocktails were creative and perfectly complemented the meal, adding an extra touch to the experience. I had an amazing night with my friends, and I can highly recommend Kadota for anyone looking for a truly memorable dining experience.

Brilliant! We’ve had the pleasure of dining at Kadota half a dozen times over the past couple of years. It is always exceptional. So much love is put into every aspect of this restaurant. We’re so lucky to have a restaurant of this calibre 30 minutes away from Castlemaine.

This is definitely a must if in Daylesford. Amazing food, my partner and I enjoyed the classic set autumn menu and could not fault any of the dishes. Upgraded our main course to the duck, and hands down one of the best duck I have ever had. Amazing service, friendly and engaging staff, Massive compliments to the Chef and his partner for an amazing highlight to our weekend away in Daylesford. The set menu is seasonal so will definitely be back to try the winter menu. Thank you for an amazing night filled with culinary delight.

I’ve been to Kadota twice now, and both visits have been exceptional. The first time was with my husband for a special occasion, and it was everything we hoped for elegant, beautifully presented dishes and an atmosphere that made the night feel truly special. The staff were warm, attentive, and made us feel genuinely welcomed. What really stood out was the delicate balance and refinement of the food. Each dish allowed the natural flavours of the ingredients to shine, without relying on heavy sauces or overpowering seasoning. It’s the kind of Japanese cuisine that respects simplicity and precision. I returned with a friend of mine who is Japanese and a true food lover, someone who has enjoyed great Japanese food both in Japan and Melbourne. She was so impressed and kept mentioning how much she loved the experience, even days after our visit. That kind of lasting impression says a lot. I really think Kadota is a rare find, thoughtful, authentic, and beautifully executed. Highly recommended for anyone who appreciates quality Japanese cuisine!!

Took my wife to Kadota Daylesford for a birthday dinner and it was easily the best vegetarian set menu I have had in Australia. We booked well in advance as they sell out quickly and spent a wonderful 4 hours there from 6:30 to 10:30 pm. What sets Kadota apart is how thoughtful their vegetarian menu is. At $200 per person it felt fairly priced and never like an afterthought compared to the meat menu. Every course was beautifully paced and explained. Our waiter Risa was excellent and shared the history of the restaurant and her husband’s culinary training in Japan. The food was exceptional. Highlights included delicate miso with enoki and nori oil, smoky eggplant with shiitake and sesame, and a standout shio koji braised king oyster mushroom. The progression of flavours was clever and balanced with each course arriving just when you were ready for it. Desserts were the real surprise. Kadota served three of them, not one or two. Carrot ice cream with tarragon and bee pollen, a parsnip and adzuki creation, and finally a pumpkin, pine nut and burnt honey pie. All unique, all brilliant, and a perfect finish. Service, storytelling and food quality made the evening memorable. Highly recommend Kadota for anyone seeking fine dining in Daylesford, vegetarian or otherwise.

Highly recommended - excellent food, service and environment. Well priced, with a very good wine list that incorporates plenty of good local wines. See menu and pic’s - we had the ‘short menu’ with Attwoods chardy 👌🏻 and Granite Hills Pinot noir that was excellent with the seafood.

Stopped in on whim in between a fully planned itinerary - didn’t leave for hours! Sensational food that surprised and delighted with real care for flavour and service. Maitre d’ was superb and cared deeply about the experience. He was the perfect host. Staff shone. Cocktails were great 🙌🏻

We went down without a booking on the Thursday night before ANZAC day, they were able to seat us at the bar, which ended up being an awesome outcome. Luke the bartender was great to chat to, giving us suggestions of wineries and distilleries to visit in the area and his cocktails and drink recommendations were on point. Food was delicious, the pork belly was a highlight. They were able to cater for my coeliac partner as well with no issues.

Out for dinner with my family, we decided to share a variety of dishes on our night at Betel Boy and we’re so glad we did. Everything was fresh, vibrant, and full of flavour. We had the fried rice, Chinese broccoli, dumplings, and crispy chicken wings (which my son found hilarious when they turned out a bit too spicy for me!). The standout for me was the pork belly on a cauliflower purée, rich, tender, and beautifully balanced. Every dish was cooked with care and served with a smile. A great spot for a relaxed and delicious meal. Make sure you stop here—you won’t be disappointed

We came here last year ordered the fried rice and Massaman curry (the best curry). It was sooo tasty and we were dreaming about it all the time. This year we came here and ordered the same dishes. (+Parfet & choc fondant) It was delightful dinner and never disappointed at all. The wait staff are also helpful and friendly. We will come back here again next year!

We recently had lunch at Betel Boy, and it was easily one of the best dining experiences we’ve had in a while. Every dish we ordered was packed with flavour, perfectly cooked, and beautifully presented. We tried the Penang curry with rice, Barramundi fish, and the standout Korean chicken ribs—each dish offering a unique flavour profile that made the meal feel like a culinary adventure. The Penang curry was rich, creamy, and aromatic, with just the right amount of spice. It was perfectly paired with steamed jasmine rice, which absorbed all the curry goodness and made every bite satisfying and comforting. The Barramundi fish was cooked to perfection—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. The freshness of the fish was clear, and it was served with a light, tangy sauce that elevated the dish without overpowering it. But the highlight of the meal was undoubtedly the Korean chicken ribs. Sticky, crispy, and bursting with bold Korean flavours, they were addictive from the first bite. The glaze was sweet, savoury, and spicy in just the right balance, and the meat was fall-off-the-bone tender. The service was warm and efficient, and the ambiance was modern and welcoming—ideal for a relaxed lunch. In short, Betel Boy delivered on all fronts. Delicious food, great atmosphere, and memorable dishes. We’re already planning our next visit!

Amazing cocktails, food , service and decor. I wish , I had visited this venue on the first day of my 6 days in Daylsford, I would have returned to try the entire menu.

Ordered 2 delicious zingy cock/mocks with a spicy tasty curry. I love the spring rolls what a hit! Y'all do not dissapoint on the cocktails and mocktails. Staff are super consistent no matter who's running about! Thank you for your friendly tentative service. :) demolished food and first drink, so no pics sorry! Came here a year ago and the consistency is valued! Will be back for sure.

Nice little Chinese restaurant found in Daylesford. Food is not too bad, some hit and miss. The honey chicken was very nice while the dumplings (dont think they are home made) and noodles are so-so. Different price in Chinese and English menu for the same dish. Overall we had quite a pleasant experience there.

Great find at Jackie’s on Vincent in Daylesford! Wasn’t sure about Asian fusion, but wow, the dishes (check my photos!) were unreal. Super sweet staff, too. Awesome food spot, totally recommend!

My husband and I stumbled across this place our first night in Daylesford and came back two nights later because we were still dreaming of their dumplings! Made fresh in house and absolutely incredible! Portions are very generous and a beautiful cosy atmosphere. Staff were friendly and attentive. We weren't super impressed by the calamari but the Asian cuisine was amazing, especially the must order dumplings! We will definitely be back 😊

The food in this small town is considered quite acceptable, and the service is notably swift. Furthermore, the portions are rather generous, to the point that we were unable to finish them.

Objectively horrible experience. Visiting town, saw the reviews and it seemed nice. Got seated next to another couple near the fireplace. Within 2mins of being seated we and the other couple were bumped from our seats for a group of 16 that rolled in with no booking (confirmed by server). Mentioned to the server it’s ok but gave her a word that I hope to be served before the big group as we were in first and only wanted 2 mains. Well, after being moved we waited, waited, lo and behold the group of 16, despite no booking, gets served all of their meals one after the other. We were served our skewers entree, which bad service aside, was still average, not marinated, just some dry chicken breast with a basic peanut sauce. After waiting, locking eyes with the front of house lady a couple of times and the server (the young server was lovely) we still didn’t get our food as the large group kept getting theirs. I’m unsure if it matters but the large group were of similar ethnicity to the restaurant operators. I hope that wasn’t the issue! In the end, I was frustrated with being bumped from our seats and then abandoned for a large group, so my friend and I got up and left, cancelling our mains. You don’t treat customers like that! Uploaded invoice so there’s no claim of a fake review. If you go here I hope your experience is better than ours.

This place is an absolute gem! If you're looking for delicious, authentic Asian fusion food served up fast and fresh, look no further. The menu is packed with flavorful dishes — everything we ordered was spot-on. You can really taste the care and tradition in the cooking. It’s a true family-run spot, and that warm, welcoming energy comes through in both the food and the service. Despite how busy it gets (and trust me, it gets busy), the staff is incredibly efficient and friendly. Our food came out lightning fast, and the service never skipped a beat. Perfect for a casual dinner, a family meal, or a quick lunch — this is the kind of place you'll find yourself coming back to again and again. Highly recommend!

🥰This restaurant is absolutely fantastic! The ambiance is cozy and charming, perfect for a delightful dining experience. The cuisine is absolutely outstanding, with delicious dishes that are freshly prepared and bursting with flavor. The salmon was beautifully cooked, the spicy beef was tender and flavorful, and the vegetables were fresh and crispy and all organic. The service was impeccable, with staff who are attentive and friendly. I would highly recommend this restaurant to friends and family, and I can't wait to return. Excellent job, keep it up!

As frequent visitors to the Daylesford area we like to try as many restaurants as we can during our stay. We hadn’t experienced Bistro Terroir before and we’d been recommended it by a friend. The menu is your standard French offerings; entrees of French Onion soup, escargot and a standout in the pork belly and scallop. All starters were beautifully presented. For mains we both chose the Steak Frites; as did most of the other diners. The steak is a Wagyu rump with a marble score of 7 topped with cafe de Paris butter and a range of mustards to choose from. Our desserts were Creme brûlée and Pomme Tarte Tatin, which were both delicious. The service was very good; the staff were very well acquainted with the menu and the wine list. I would have given Bistro Terroir five stars; however what let them down was the fact that the frites with the Steak frites were shoestring fries that were obviously frozen. At $55 my expectation is the frites would be hand-cut as is the case with Bouillon L'Entrecôte. Overall though, an enjoyable dining experience.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ An Unforgettable Dining Experience in Daylesford – A True Gem! 🥩🍷 We visited Bistro Terroir for my partner’s birthday dinner while staying in Daylesford, and it was nothing short of incredible. From the moment we walked in, we were welcomed into a space that felt romantic, calming, and beautifully intimate. The dim lighting and charming ambiance set the perfect tone for a special evening. We were greeted by a lovely waitress who was genuinely attentive, friendly, and professional — the service here is absolutely top-notch and added to the overall sense of care and quality. Now the food… wow. We started with their oysters, which were the perfect opener: fresh, delicate, and beautifully presented. The steak tartare was a new experience for us, and it completely won us over — exquisitely balanced and thoughtfully prepared. Then came the steaks, and even though I can’t remember the exact cut, I definitely remember the flavour. Cooked perfectly medium-rare, the steaks were juicy, tender, and had an incredible crust — every bite was memorable. If there’s one thing we wished for, it was a bigger portion, because it was that good. I still think about that steak to this day! Daylesford is a quiet little town about 1.5 hours from Melbourne — not too much going on, especially food-wise, so finding a place like Bistro Terroir was a total highlight of our trip. We couldn’t have asked for a better spot to celebrate my partner’s birthday. Huge thanks to the team at Bistro Terroir for such a phenomenal meal and memorable night — your passion for great food and hospitality truly shines through. Highly recommend to anyone visiting Daylesford!

As regular visitors to Daylesford over the last few years we had received many recommendations to dine at Bistro Terroir. Sadly circumstances had prevented this, but I am so pleased we finally made it. Staff were friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. The food was a delight, with the French onion soup on point and Gougères a dish to remember. The heavy lifting was done by steak frites though, which proved to be everything they promised. A wonderful weekend lunch experience. Definitely recommend.

A cute bistro in Daylesford, we enjoyed to vibe and service. Food was ok… Brûlée was tasty, perfect texture. Steak frites was tasty… meat cooked perfectly, I think I just got unlucky with the piece I got as it was a bit tough. The scallops and pork was a little disappointing, scallops were perfect, pork belly was not - skin had no crackle and not tender. Enjoyable overall experience, I would be willing to try again.

I had dinner here with my friend on the last night of our two night stay in Daylesford, two weeks ago. We did not have a booking but it was no problem getting a table. Between us we had the qroquettes, beignet, ocean trout, pumpkin gnocchi and creme brulee. We enjoyed everything and although I enjoyed my trout after tasting the pumpkin gnocchi I wish I ordered that too. The creme brulee was amazing. The staff attentive and friendly. Moody ambience. My only negative was the price of the drinks. If I didn't have a voucher to pay for half the meal I would have stuck to water. My photos aren't great but you get the gist.

Probably one of the best meals I’ve personally had, can’t wait to return and sample more of the menu. The steak frites can’t be missed, but from our limited taste obviously everything on the menu is blow your mind levels of incredible. Every dish had us grinning from ear to ear and the meal was the highlight of our trip to Daylesford. Our server’s were an absolute joy, the attention to detail presented in everything from the food to the atmosphere shows a true level of care and passion for the experience being served and makes you feel incredibly cozy and like you’re in the hands of the best kind of hospitality veterans from front to kitchen. Found this to be a much more wholesome experience compared “fine” dining restaurants you find within Melbourne’s CBD. A must visit if you’re ever in the area, and a reason to come back again and again!

I would have given a full 5/5 because the steak frites were absolutely delicious! However, we ended up waiting almost an hour (around 45 minutes) for our meal, with no follow-up or update during that time. The servers were amazing—very friendly and welcoming—and the food itself was great once it arrived. It’s just unfortunate that the wait was so long, especially since we saw several other tables being served and finishing their meals before ours came out. A small side note: the outdoor tables are slightly slanted due to the way the path is built, but the chairs are very comfortable!

What an absolutely sensational dining experience - truly beautiful from beginning to end. The attention to detail in the service and in the quality and presentation of the dishes was unlike anything we have experienced in years! We will return without hesitation when we are next in the Daylesford area :)

Such a stunning location and beautiful place, the vibes were so good and everything so well kept. I could not recommend Michael enough, he was so absolutely lovely and made the experience 100 times better, a kind and warm soul who take great care of his clients. Not only does my body feel nourished but so does my soul, absolutely recommend.

Our experience was nothing short of what we expected from this amazing restaurant. We arrived early and we were led straight to our table without any hesitation. It was a 5 course lunch and every course was served with great execution. Cassie our waitress was very attentive from start to finish and we loved her service. 5 star effort from front of house and kitchen team 👏

Lake House restaurant brings forth a truly excellent menu with a few options for each course (so somewhere midway between degustation and à la carte) that harmonises delicate flavours with simple complexity (or complex simplicity). Laid back, experienced staff. Conducive atmosphere. Highly recommended.

I celebrated my 50th birthday at The Lakehouse and it honestly exceeded my expectations. The place is beautiful, the service was amazing, and the food was incredible. It was such a real treat—a perfect spot for a special occasion! Thank you!!

The Lake House is stunning, surrounded by nature, gardens, and calm water views that make you instantly unwind. The Spa area and infinity pool overlooking the lake are absolutely breathtaking. A perfect day trip to relax and recharge. 🌿✨

A 50th birthday celebration for my wife, was absolutely perfect, from the check-in to the first class service across dinner, breakfast and room service. The food was perfect once again. Thank you Team, we will be back again

No complaints about the food. We especially enjoyed the smoked eel, while the mains were a bit more standard/ordinary (but by no means bad). The air conditioning was a bit too strong in certain parts of the room, and we also noticed other patrons asking to be moved to different tables - I think that should have been an indicator to turn the cooling down.

Tyler our server was exceptional and friendly. The food was fresh, moist and tender spatchcock chicken. The charcuterie platter was of great quality and quantity. The chocolate tart was delicious. The only downside with the food was the chips, would prefer more of pub style and not plain ones. The tap lager beer was crisp and light.The atmosphere was okay, but the carpet had a smell and there was no air flow. In general, decent place to eat for the price range.

Beautiful venue with pleasant interior for a pub/not so oub vibe. Service was ok but the most letdowns was thr quality of food. We had the steak, pot pie and pasta and none of them was good. The most disappointing dish was the octopus entree. $200 for not so good food but if you are in the area for a quick bite and cool beer then it's fine.

Dinner on a Friday night. Staff were friendly and attentive. Cozy dining room, quite busy and loud. My husbands rump steak was over cooked, medium-well, even though it stated on the menu it is cooked medium rare… I asked the waitress could I have my eye fillet over cooked ‘well done’ to which she replied yes, the middle was well under cooked and more medium. So there steak cooking skills let us down. The cheaper wines by the bottle were ‘not available’ and chocolate selections for dessert also ‘not available’. We were asked to move to the bar area to clear our table, quite promptly, even though it didn’t seem too busy and we were happily drinking bottles of wine and spending money. It was a nice experience but wouldn’t rave about it.

We tried the eye fillet and it was cooked just how we like it. Portions were generous and cocktail was also different to anything I have ever tried! Lovely little country pub feel.

Stopped in for a drink on Saturday afternoon and later in the evening. Absolutely beautiful interior and atmosphere. Staff were busy but extremely welcoming. What a gorgeous find close to our accommodation over the road.

I really wanted to dine in for dinner, being fully booked, my family and I thought we would try our luck and just walk in. We were fortunate to be sat at a table in the garden area, after we had ordered some drinks we realised it was getting quite it e cool and the mozzies were out so we asked if we could move inside. We were accommodated with no problem at all. What a beautiful atmosphere. The staff were really lovely, attentive and nothing was too much trouble. The food was so good. You would pay a bit more than the usual pub, and it was worth it. We loved it here and would recommend booking.

Such a gorgeous little cafe! Went with my girlfriends for a day trip from Melbourne and this did not disappoint. Music and vibe was so wholesome and relaxing and staff were so lovely. The food came so quickly too and was delicious! Would highly recommend.

Wombat Hill House in Daylesford is a charming cafe nestled in the beautiful Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. Enjoy seasonal local produce, vegan options, and friendly service in a serene atmosphere. Pet-friendly outdoor seating and scenic views make it a must-visit destination.

What a fantastic café! We went for breakfast, had a a lovely experience and ate fabulous food. Coffee was good too. The lunch menu looked delicious so we’ll have to go back. It was great to have a wonder through the park afterwards.

To sum up for people short on time and eager to find a place to dine, all I have to say is just go! The food is beyond the average café experience – don’t be fooled by ordinary names or familiar seeming meals, trust me it will be unlike you’ve had before in the best way, the staff are experienced and welcoming, the atmosphere is separated into three seating areas and each has its own charm so every person can find their ideal spot, and overall, it is an additional experience to add to your travels, instead of being a drive-by food spot, I could not recommend this place more. P.S: Going to this café highlighted an already splendid day into one of the best we’ve had this month, upon entering the café we were instantly greeted and ready to be sat with our waitress kindly accommodating for our dog and offering two seating options, in the front enclosed courtyard, or the back garden, given it was a hot day, we decided to steer as far from the sun as we could and chose the back. The minute we stepped foot through, it was as though we had reemerged into the gorgeous surrounding botanical garden and someone had specially placed theme fitting wooden tables and chairs, hung vines from the canopy and adorned the surrounding flower beds with spring flowers, the cool breeze provided by the cleverly shaded courtyard hit us immediately and provided such relief from the scorching weather, we genuinely couldn’t have asked for better. Next came the food, overall, the minute we opened the menu we’d been pleasantly surprised to see a various range of meals, with even the toasties having some sort of special twist or ingredient which made it clear they weren’t simply reproduced from an external source, altogether, we ordered a Brekky Burger, a Thai Pork Noodle Salad, and a warm Salmon Bowl. I cannot express properly to you over a message how delicious the food which arrived had been, the Brekky Burger for instance, although a familiar, typically ordinary choice, the components from which it was cooked propelled all expectations far further than they’d been, the buns themself fell apart in the mouth and had a beautiful, subtle milky after-taste reminiscent of fresh homemade bread. The included twist of the burger were slices of salami overlayed on top of the main protein and when I tell you it sent the meal to another level with how harmoniously it played on the palette with every other ingredient, I still couldn’t properly accentuate it to the degree that it was. The salmon bowl was cooked in a similar fashion, with fish unbelievably fresh and soft, the flavour of which paired with the fluffy, white rice, melted in ones mouth as it was not overpowered by the accompanied glaze, but rather, gave it an accented, underlying tang, complimenting the main elements of the dish. It is very clear when a cook is skillful in their craft as they do not attempt to hide their ingredients under the heavy glaze of a sweet sauce that everyone will enjoy, and instead, allows their dish to speak for itself, providing the sauce as a secondary pleasure and the salmon bowl was exactly that. The Thai pork noodle salad was our final delight and perhaps the most interesting in terms of taste, it played with a combination of salty, sweet and slightly spicy flavours, as with the salmon bowl, none of the ingredients had been overpowering of the other and instead, conjoined in perfect balance to give a mouth-watering taste that could not be beat, definitely a meal worth ordering and even more so, savouring, so make sure not to rush every bite no matter how hungry you may be. Overall our time at the Wombat Hill House was made all the more perfect by the incredibly kind, hard-working and glowing team of chefs and waitresses/waiters which help make this café into the gem that we found it to be and we extend our deepest gratitude and thank you for creating such a wonderful stamp on our day, we will definitely be reoccurring visitors.

We visited Wombat Hill House cafe for brunch and it was such an enjoyable dining experience. The conservatory is a beautiful light-filled space, the service was warm and friendly, and the food was absolutely delicious. We ordered via the QR code on the table and our food and drinks came out quickly. The big breakfast was hearty and flavourful, and the French toast was fluffy on the inside and deliciously crisp on the outside, served with a sweet vanilla mascarpone and poached pear - yum!

Staff are lovely and relaxed. I got a cosy table by the fire and loved the atmosphere. Thank you for your great service during peak hour on a saturday morning! Everything looks so yum and it's a very cosy winter escape!

Located in Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens. A rainy day can't dampen our spirits when there's dessert and coffee to be had after a stroll in Botanic Gardens. 🍰 Carrot cake 🍰 Basque cheesecake

Beautiful gardens. Recommend to take the scenic drive around the property first. Signs are located as soon as you drive in. It will bring you up to a carpark. Perfect place to take in the views, have a picnic, or short stroll to the wonderful cafe. Allow yourself a few hours or plan the day. Public Toilets are available. Beautiful walking trails amongst the trees, gorgeous unique flowers. Highly recommend the cafe for a bite and coffee.

Lovely little walk with magnificent trees and flowers along the way to a yummy cafe which located on the grounds. My son loves to climb the tower and taking photos of almost every tree there. We are visiting this place several times a year at different seasons of school holidays.

"Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens is a beautiful and peaceful oasis in Daylesford. The gardens are immaculately maintained, with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and stunning views over the town. The walk to the top of the hill offers panoramic vistas, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. The historical significance of the gardens adds to the charm, and the on-site café is a great place to grab a coffee while soaking in the surroundings. Whether you're a nature lover or just looking for a relaxing day out, Wombat Hill is definitely worth a visit!"

If you in Daylesford, go and see this little botanic garden. A little bit neglected but just in the right way to make your mind wander... Go on a quiet evening and watch the sunset or marvel at some of the big feature trees. Don't forget to walk through the fernery below the car park...

Very pleasant surroundings. Scenic drive. Tower walk. Cafe. Plenty of parking. BBQ shed. Facilities. Short walk to cafe. Oh, they have a cannon, too.

Absolutely gorgeous! Just go! But goneatly if you want a coffee, cafe closes not long after lunch.

Nice cafe to soak up the surroundings and enjoy some breakfast. Good collection of sandwiches and pastries in the counter for a smaller snack. Dog friendly too!

Lots of variety, interesting artisan stalls, many things to try (especially interesting mushrooms). Very disappointing hot dogs from the red hot dog stand. Train ride to Ballarto was a bit of fun though! Great day out, even in on again off again drizzle! Highly recommend.

I would definitely recommend visiting the market if your staying in town for the weekend. It does get busy so if your staying nearby best to just walk down. Great food options and lots of bric a brac. I enjoy hoping onboard the old train for a old time cruise through the country side. It does cost and you may have to pre book Tix for busy times.

Located 90 minutes drive north from Melbourne the gourmet food destination of Daylesford offers a wide range of locally produced artisan style products. From gins to breads to herbs and flowers and even health style pillows there is plenty to choose from if you are looking for a present and want to support the local craft and community. Located centrally in the town there is good parking and food to taste or coffees. Combine a weekend of tasting and exploring at the Sunday Market and spend the night in the country town!! Enjoy

Such a fun morning. We visited Daylesford for a weekend and decided to go on Sunday morning. We got there early, just as the vendors were setting up, so got to wander casually around with a great coffee. By the time we left an hour and half later, it was packed full of people! I bought fresh strawberries-delicious! Also, nuts and dried mango…so good I wish I bought more! Also bought some great kitchen knives. My friend bought a gorgeous, emerald green felt hat, handmade and stunning. Lots to choose from, handmade earrings, skin care, gin…then there’s the trash n treasure side on the other side of the fence. Rows of tables of fun bricks a brac, clothes and tools. Overall a fun morning with lots of goodies to buy. Seems like a great community event to support. Five stars

Nice and sweet market. A LOT of people, but easy to park. Better go there early, we arrived around 12 and the coffee truck is almost running out🤣

Traditional Sunday market that we have never went for a very long time. There are over 100 different merchandise from locals could be visited. A such relaxing and enjoyable place to go in weekend.

Awesome. Dropped in on our way through. Great variety of stall holders. Very friendly atmosphere. Found items to purchase I didn't know I needed 🤣

Had a wonderful time at Cliffy’s 🍁 Cozy vibes, kind service, & delicious food. Mum went with the burger, while I enjoyed the country breakfast. 🍳 🍔 Great value and truly generous servings. I already know this is a new favourite of mine, I’ll definitely be back. And who knows, next visit I might even treat myself to one of those delicious handmade treats! 😋🍪

THE BEST BRUNCH I HAVE HAD IN RECENT TIMES - the perfect place to stop on a road trip around the area. Delicious, thoughtfully served, well proportioned servings at a reasonable price. Located within a quirky emporium! Would certainly visit again! **The above is a retrospective entry. Attended this venue on 22/08/2025**

Very nice cafe in Daylesford. Food was very nice. Service was great too. Cute little cafe with lots of merchandise on one side. Cozy atmosphere with different seating plans. We had a very enjoyable experience at Cliffy's!

Amazing cosy place with very beautiful interior. Food is very amazing, quantity is very good , taste is very good. Service is quick. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Beautiful place. Will visit here again..

Cliffy's is a must stop when visiting Daylesford. The food and coffee were delicious. simple menu, but the meals are made to perfection, and very filling. It is an experience. The staff are super friendly, and welcoming. The ambience was unique and charming, a slice of history. Gift shop within the cafe. It is Recommended to make a booking ahead of time or order a head, it gets very busy, very quick, but it is well worth the wait. Will definitely return.

This is an experience not to be missed. It's a beautiful shop and lunchroom. People are sweet, as is the place itself and the food is top notch. Fair priced, large portions, the background music is just right. The kitchen's fast. Everything just clicks. 10/10 recommend.

Loved it so much here that we came back again!! It is busy but worth it cause the food is soooo tasty the coffee was also consistently delicious! Even the eggs on toast impressed us the bread tasted so fresh and the eggs were cooked perfectly! Very good price for the quality of food and the staff are so attentive and do a great job managing how busy it gets you still don’t feel forgotten about or rushed! I recommend booking just to be sure you get a spot - especially on the weekend

Located at the heart of the charming town of Daylesford, Wine speaks has earned itself a must do when visiting the town. It houses the best varieties of wines and delicacies in town. Many kinds of cheese and preserved meats are sold here. One can even find the best chips in the world here. With the wide range of food ranging from butter, jam, spread, fancy drinks, ham, cheese, biscuits, imported chips, fashionable household decors to the best wines. You named it they have them. You can even sit down and enjoy the wines and jamon here at the cosy seats in the shop. The staff are attentive and eager to serve. There are many interesting food stuffs and kitchen decors you can find here. I enjoy wondering in the shop every time I visit the place. Never once leave the place without buying something be it cheese or wines. If you can only go to one place in Daylesford, this is the place to be !

They have quite varied range of local wines and cheeses. We had a good time here while waiting for our coach to the train-station back to Melbourne. Good service by the staff.

Wide selection of wines especially fr the oocal wineries. Cheese and anh condiment to go with your wines too. The place to shop at in Daylesford if you want quality.

Lovely little deli, the GF and I had a small board of cheeses and dips with a few wines each. This place has a great vibe and a great selection of deli meats, cheeses and of course wines. Sat by the window and people watched. Highly recommended this place and I would go back again

Cute little place with great variety of cheese and wine! Super helpful and friendly staff who helped us pick a bottle of wine

Atmosphere felt nice when we walked in. We ordered some ham & cheese to take away which was lovely. Unfortunately the staff member we dealt with was unfriendly, non engaging & spoke down on us when speaking to us about the cheese. Made us feel not welcome. Other places like Cliffy's Emporium & Larder restored our faith in great customer service.

Ok so they sell nice food and wine but the staff who have served me the few times I've visited have been so apathetic. I'm not normally that pressed about average friendliness and don't expect a lot of enthusiasm as I never found it that fun in a similar job but I've found it so bad it became almost funny to me. It also smells inside, which is probably the cheese, but as someone who visits a lot of smelly cheese shops it's on the extreme end of smelliness. I'd still go back though for the cheese and wine if I was in the area though, just wanted to give people a heads up.

One of a few Vietnamese restaurants in Daylesford. Price was on a higher end but the overall experience was good. Crispy pork with vermicelli 10/10

Surprisingly nice Vietnamese food found in Hepburn. Very pricey ($26 pho) compared to metro Melbourne but understandable for being in the country side. The General Manager is very lovely. Quite relaxing atmosphere inside the RSL with a pool table and a bar. Overall a very pleasant experience.

Just a lovely off the path a bit, delicious place to eat. We ordered crispy pork, fish salad and rendang. All super delicious and good value.

So good, we came back the next night! The dishes are authentic, beautifully fresh ingredients and perfectly cooked. We highly recommend the pho and the Bo Luc Lac! The prices are great compared to other restraunts in the area, and portion sizes are generous. The host was very attentive and staff so friendly. The restraunt is clean with a nice atmosphere. We will always return when staying in the area!

Great food and excellent service , the best chicken wings I have ever had in 30 years

Thank you for taking the time to respond. I would like to clarify a few points: While I confirmed the order on the screen, the staff member showed no indication that my verbal order was unclear. At that moment, my partner came over because the staff had asked us to move to a smaller table. I trusted that my spoken order had been understood, as it usually is. I understand that misunderstandings can happen, and I have no issue accepting that mistakes occur. What upset me was not the mix-up itself, but the way the situation was handled afterward. Blaming a customer’s accent — instead of simply resolving the order issue — is inappropriate. Having lived in Tokyo for six years and traveled internationally, I have never experienced a situation where a wrong dish was blamed on my accent rather than handled professionally. What I stated in my original review was factual. It is disappointing to be accused of racial intolerance when my concern was simply about being treated respectfully, not about anyone’s background. Visitors should be welcomed without judgment. I hope this feedback will be taken seriously, as no customer should be made to feel humiliated over a simple misunderstanding. ——————— Very poor service and serious racial discrimination. I ordered prawn fried rice but was given prawn noodles (as shown in the photo). When I politely explained the mistake, the staff refused to fix it and said I had to pay again if I wanted rice. A woman at the front counter — with dark skin and long false eyelashes — told me that my “accent was hard to understand” and blamed me for the mistake. Daylesford is a well-known tourist destination. Visitors should feel welcome — not judged for their English accent. This kind of language-based discrimination is unacceptable. I felt humiliated and disrespected. I will never return and strongly advise others to avoid this place.

Great staff, nice and warm place. Ordered a stir fry vegetable dish with Tofu and the portion size was very small for $22 and it was delicious though. Probably a bit pricey for me compared to portion sizes. Thank you.

This is the best hot chocolate place in Victoria by a long shot!!! The shop itself is such a welcoming and calming place to sit down and have a drink. The lady (I didn’t catch her name) was so friendly and nice. Me and my wife drank it in under like 2 minutes it was so good we had the “deluxe experience” This place is our favourite and we will be stopping by here every time we are up in Daylesford 🙏🏽🙏🏽

The hot chocolate is so delicious! Although it is little bit expensive, absolutely the best and most amazing hot chocolate have ever had! We ordered the milk chocolate and chili cinnamon chocolate. i can recomend to everyone who comes to Daysford😎

This place, the hospitality and of course the hot chocolate are absolutely first class. The attention to detail demonstrates the love Arkie puts into every cup, packet and her customers. Hot chocolate is an occasion, a holiday, a moment of bliss, love in a cup. Do yourself a favour, go into the shop or buy online. You won't go back to the mass produced stuff again. Thank you for raising the bar on hot chocolate in Australia.

The best hot chocolate and brownie I have ever had! We order the deluxe experience, a hot chocolate with whipped cream, chocolate crumble and toasted marshmallows, with it came an extra little jug of cream! This experience was phenomenal, 100% recommend!!

My daughter bought this hot chocolate for us to try it at home during her trip to Daylesford. We’ve been experimenting with different types of milk. It’s so rich and delicious 👍

Great hot chocolate and such a cute property. Price is justified for the quality and taste of the hot chocolate and marshmallows! Lady working there was very nice, definitely will go back!

The hot chocolate and the vibe was everything. But, the lady serving was not the vibe because she suggested buying the cylindered hot chocolate powder saying that it was the same price as the packet, which turned out to be different. So if you buy the hot chocolate powder be aware of the prices.

We were very surprised walking into this distillery, blown away by the decor. Would describe this place as a hidden gem in Daylesford. Very friendly staff, going through the herbal liqueurs, having different effects on the body, full of flavour, delicious brandy tawny. The story behind this distillery gave that extra appreciation behind there products. Tasted the most smooth vodka I've ever had, great quality, had to buy a bottle. Honestly best I've tasted before. Would highly recommend coming here.

We loved this distillery. We walked in and blown away by the space, decor and ambience of the tasting room. After having a look at some great gift ideas we were seated comfortably on some couches and an informative and generous tasting began. Honestly we could have nearly bought everything we tasted between us. This is a must and in the top three of our visit to Daylesford.

Michele and I called in today after purchasing a port for Father’s Day a few hi ups but we got it sorted so we thought we would call in and say thank you WOW 🤩 what a surprise the atmosphere was amazing what a venue to sit back and enjoy, I would not call it a tasting it was a journey and we were lucky to have the owner Susanne take us through the experience explaining every detail of the range of Gins, vodka, tawnys and liquors. It would have to been one of the best experiences we left a little bit lighter in the bank but we are looking forward to sharing them with friends by the open fire Thank you Susanne and Rodger Paul Levey and Michele East

My partner and I dropped by just as we were leaving Dalesford and we are so glad we did! Sue and Roger were wonderful - they spent time talking about their beautiful liqueurs with us. The smoked malt whiskey and liqueur plums were my favourite! I order a bit of everything and had it delivered to Sydney. Thank you so much Sue and Roger for your hospitality and for sharing your stories with us. Asthika & Prakhar

Best tasting EVER! Staff were amazing!! All alcohol was so nice. The vodka tasted like water.. Dangerous. I will always recommend this place to anyone visiting around Daylesford!! Thank you for a lovely experience

We had a wonderful time tasting the wide variety of herbal liqueurs, gins and tawny here. The couple that runs this distillery are wonderful and took their time explaining each tasting to us! The distillery itself is cozy and warm, with lots of vintage decor.

We visited Terra Australis Distillery on the weekend and can only describe our experience as magical. Roger guided us through our elixir tasting. Speaking with him felt like speaking with an alchemist, his extensive knowledge of plants and the skill and care taken in turning them into delicious liquors was both fascinating and enjoyable. It is a rare thing to meet someone so proficient in their craft and this is why Terra Auatralis should be a must visit for anyone coming to the region.