Food & Drink

One of the pleasures of food and drink is that they are often a shared experience – think about the times you’ve gotten together with friends and exchanged interesting ideas and opinions. In addition to having enjoyed a good meal, you left the table better informed with most senses more than likely fulfilled. Our Food and Drink section is all about the unique, best practice experiences on the Mornington Peninsula. In this section we like to inspire and inform readers with a mix of stories from around the Pen.

Indian Villa, Dromana

From the bustling streets of Punjab to the breezy shores of the Mornington Peninsula, Indian Villa is more than a restaurant. It’s a story of two friends, Harry and Amid, who brought with them not only their culinary skill but also the spirit of hospitality deeply woven into Indian culture. With two restaurants — one in Dromana and one in Rye — they’ve created places where heritage, flavour, and community come together in every shared meal.

Indian Villa, Rye

From the bustling streets of Punjab to the breezy shores of the Mornington Peninsula, Indian Villa is more than a restaurant. It’s a story of two friends, Harry and Amid, who brought with them not only their culinary skill but also the spirit of hospitality deeply woven into Indian culture. With two restaurants — one in Dromana and one in Rye — they’ve created places where heritage, flavour, and community come together in every shared meal.

Rocky Creek Strawberry Farm, Main Ridge

Nestled into the verdant hills of Main Ridge amid volcanic soil and with perfect climatic conditions, lies 300 acres of strawberry fields – Sunny Ridge Strawberry Farm. First settled by Pietro Gallace, father of current owner, Mick – Pietro planted apples, but soon discovered that the conditions in the area were perfectly suited for strawberries. 

Tully’s Corner Produce Store, Mornington

Originally the Tully’s site was an apple orchard however today the business is driven by three generations of the Brancatisano family who have been providers on the Peninsula since the late 1950’s. While respecting the history of the site, Tully’s appreciates that supporting & promoting local regional lines - most of which are sourced directly from growers – is integral to the business and the community it serves. The family are also passionate about delivering quality fare and a family friendly experience built on service.

InterContinental Sorrento

In the picturesque seaside town of Sorrento, the InterContinental Sorrento Mornington Peninsula stands as a living testament to vision, innovation, and enduring charm. Since its inception in 1875, this iconic hotel has been a symbol of hospitality and sophistication.

Alatonero, McCrae

A long-term love affair with Santorini, and a passion for Greek food, has brought a new culinary vibe to the Mornington Peninsula. Across the road from the McCrae lighthouse (at what was The Pavilion), Alatonero is giving diners the opportunity to enjoy well known and much loved Greek delicacies. With an impressive resume in the food world, and with energy and drive to burn, Jacqui Poulier found the perfect location for her new venture, where she has brought to life her love of food, cooking, people and stories. The restaurant is light, bright, open and airy with a fresh sea breeze that drifts through the open plan dining area.

Heronswood House and Gardens, Dromana

Nestled in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, The Diggers at Heronswood stands as a beacon of Australian gardening folklore and a testament to the enduring passion for preserving our natural heritage. This enchanting haven, with its lush gardens and historic architecture, offers a sanctuary where the beauty of nature and the wisdom of sustainable gardening come together.

Finesse Catering Group, Frankston

Brad and Roong Holtz of Finesse Catering Group are a formidable team. Passionate, creative and classically trained, their worlds collided when Brad attended one of Roong’s cooking classes in Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, where Roong taught tourists and professional chefs the art of traditional Thai cooking. At the time Brad was working as a chef on small private yachts in Alaska and Mexico but they found a way to be together, moving to the Mornington Peninsula in 2007.