Meigas is an authentic Spanish tapas bar, serving up a huge range of Spanish delicacies, with a particular focus on chef Jose Fernandez’s home region of Galicia. There is an extensive wine list to compliment the sharing dishes, and a quirky, atmospheric style to the small restaurant. Open Tuesday to Saturday 12pm to 11pm, and Sunday 12pm to 4pm.
The Forge Pizzeria creates woodfired pizza and handmade pasta, made with local produce and fresh deli ingredients. The restaurant offers a fun, laid back atmosphere, and the chance to watch your pizza being made from scratch. Located in the centre of town, it is open for food and drink every day from 12pm to 10pm.
The Pub With Two Names is a contemporary, Argentinian-inspired grill restaurant set in an historic bluestone building which previously housed the Royal Highlander Hotel (1878-1964) and the Peter Lalor Hotel (1964-2014), hence the name. The Pub now serves up locally sourced meat and regional wines in an art-filled, atmospheric and relaxed space. Open 7 days a week, 11 30am to 11pm.
Winemakers John Harris and Alicia Mitchell have turned a 140-year old former produce store, tentmakers and motor workshop into a wine bar and dining experience in the heart of Ballarat. Serving their full range of wines, and a menu of local produce designed to be paired, this bar/restaurant offers a classy but relaxed option for lovers of food and wine.
Underbar is a 12 seat restaurant in Ballarat, offering fine dining in an incredibly intimate and exclusive setting, with minimalist, Swedish-style decor. Each Friday and Saturday evening, Chef Derek Boath creates a tasting menu for just 12 guests inspired by seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Booking opens a month in advance.
Moon and Mountain is an uber-modern Asian restaurant and bar, serving fine dining quality contemporary Asian food with an Australian twist. Inspired largely by the ‘hawker cuisine’ of Malaysia, the owners have cultivated a vibrant and exciting atmosphere, and provide a high quality drinks list to compliment the food.