Best Vegan Spots For a Hap-pea Outing in the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges

Okay, we get it, vegan puns are corny, but if you're visiting the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges and feel like you might struggle with a vegan diet, you won’t. Known for our stellar food and wine options, there’s no way we’d leave out our vegan visitors, so put these tasty stops on your itinerary.

De Bortoli Yarra Valley, Dixons Creek

The award-winning De Bortoli Yarra Valley Estate is where Italian charm meets sun-kissed vineyard heaven. The estate produces high-quality cool climate wines that express the best the Yarra Valley wine region has to offer.

At the heart of it all is Locale Restaurant, where the De Bortoli family's Italian roots come to life on every plate. We know that you'll love their vegan menu, which features delicious options for starters, mains, sides and even a cheeky dessert!

There's even a breakfast menu available on weekends for those early risers!

Boat O'Craigo Wines, Healesville

With large floor to ceiling windows overlooking the vineyard, a toasty fire in the cooler months and the outside deck in the warmer months, Boat O'Craigo Wines is a magnificent place to visit for lovers of exceptional food and wine. The family owned, boutique winery is a must-visit on your next trip to the Yarra Valley.

When you visit their stunning cellar door for a wine tasting, we know you'll be tempted by their delicious vegan sharing board which includes a selection of vegan dip, mixed olives, pickled vegetables, vegan feta and sourdough bread to accompany your amazing wine. Their lunch menu also has a range of vegan pizzas to choose from so why not stay a bit longer and enjoy the stunning view?

Olinda Tea House, Olinda

Nestled in the heart of the stunning Dandenong Ranges, Olinda Tea House has a modern, Asian-fusion style fare with a dedicated vegan menu filled with delicious dishes including dumplings, stir frys and plant based options. Their tea selection also includes an amazing range of international black, white or green teas, or indulge in a hot chocolate or espresso.

Open 6 days a week (closed on Tuesdays), you'll love your visit to Olinda Tea House. Don't forget to spend some time exploring the grounds and feeding the alpacas and pony in the beautiful garden.

Coldstream Brewery, Coldstream

The original brainchild of four local friends, Coldstream Brewery opened its doors to beer lovers and diners in June 2007.

The restaurant and bar are housed in a charming old brick building in the heart of Coldstream and serve fresh, informal, locally sourced food for lunch and dinner. Their large menu has all the pub favourites including delicious vegan options for starters, pizzas, burgers, parmas and sides, so make sure to arrive on an empty stomach!

Accompany your delicious lunch or dinner with Coldstream beers and ciders and you've got the ultimate relaxed dining experience.

The General Food Store & Incy Wincy, Emerald

Two of our favourite places to eat in Emerald, The General Food Store & Incy Wincy, are loaded with vegan options to fuel you up for your big day exploring our region.

At The General Food Store, their menu has yummy breakfast, brunch and lunch favourites plus a large range of vegan drink options including beer and cider. You'll probably also order a cake or cookie to take with you on your journey!

Incy Wincy's menu has a great range of vegan options to eat at the cafe or takeaway and enjoy at a picnic. Think seasonal soups and salads, hot pies, sandwiches and wraps, granola post, sweet treats and lots of drinks to choose from.

You'll be spoilt for choice!

Bam Bam Italian, Avonsleigh

Casual and family-friendly Bam Bam Italian is a great choice for groups as their modern Italian, crowd-pleasing menu includes options for gluten-free, dairy-free, vegetarian, vegan, garlic and onion-free so nobody misses out.

Established in 2017, Bam Bam Italian is also wheelchair accessible, has a covered fenced playground for the kids to explore and their outdoor verandah is perfect for dog-friendly dining.

Babajis Kerala Kitchen, Belgrave & Warburton

If Indian is your vibe, Babajis Kerala Kitchen is a must-visit. Specialising in the lesser-known cuisine of 'Kerala', a little Southern state of India, expect tropical flavours laden with spice.

Open for lunch and dinner across two fantastic locations, Belgrave and Warburton, 50% of their menu is vegan. They can also cater for halal and gluten free dietaries.

Babajis is also pet-friendly, so bring your pup, enjoy their outdoor dining areas and hit the parks for a great day out (no dogs are allowed in National Parks).

From curries to dosa, street food paired with craft beers, this is a food lover's dream. Bookings are recommended, especially for weekends and public holidays.