Discover New Gems and Old Faves in St Andrews and Beyond

Need a getaway without actually going too far? Imagine casual restaurants and welcoming cellar doors, an eclectic market and art gallery, possibly even a cute animal or two throw in? What you need can all be found in and around St Andrews, a short 45-minute drive from the city.

Delicious Food & Drink

For a first-rate patisserie destination, you can't go past The French Lettuce also in Hurstbridge. You can sip your friendly barista’s excellent brew, relax and enjoy delicious delights from an all-day menu that includes wonderful breakfast and lunch dishes, and, of course, their famous Vanilla Slice awarded the best in Melbourne by The Age. A must-try!

Fondata 1872's lively dining room is the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening enjoying amazing food, local wines and great conversation. They celebrate Italian food, wine and culture through Italian inspired dishes created from seasonal and local Australian produce.

Greasy Zoes is a Two Hat produce driven restaurant in the heart of Hurstbridge. This intimate eight seater restaurant owned by partners, Lachlan and Zoe, has a daily changing set menu and utilises only hyper local produce from small farmers of The Nillumbik Shire.

Wineries You'll Love

Explore some of the many wineries that call the area home. Part of the Yarra Valley geographic indication, most wineries are on the smaller side of the spectrum with many still family-run and hence tend to only be open on weekends. Check with individual wineries for more details. We highly recommend keeping an eye out for the next Nillumbik Open Cellars weekend here.

That Panton Hill Winery has a distinct European feel to it is no accident. Owner and winemaker Teunis Kwak hails from Holland, settling in Australia in the 1970s. This is the spot to enjoy a rustic menu and innovative wines in a true Australian bush setting.

Buttermans Track Wines may be off the beaten track a bit, but isn’t that what a road trip is all about? Grab a cheese and antipasto platter and sample their highly drinkable natural wines sustainably produced with minimal intervention and organic viticulture.

Shaws Road Winery is a family-owned and operated winery that ticks all the boxes: elegant restaurant lunch; knowledgeable wine tasting; and even a charming Bed & Breakfast apartment if you wish to really indulge.

Easthill Estate is a privately owned boutique vineyard that opens its Cellar Door one day every weekend or by private appointment. Take in the breathtaking vineyard vistas, enjoy the outdoor couches, listen to live music, or cosy up by the indoor fire.

Attractions, Art & Shopping

St Andrews Community Market (Saturdays from 9am until 2pm, corner Kangaroo Ground-St Andrews Road and Heidelberg-Kinglake Road) has been part of the fabric of this vibrant community for over 40 years. Wander amongst the stalls and pick up all manner of pre-loved goods, homegrown veggies, preserves and much, much more. Grab a coffee or chai and enjoy the many buskers plying their trade. While parking can be a bit challenging, there is always plenty of free parking at the nearby tennis courts.

Whilst in St Andrews, make sure to check out bizu studio. Located in the charming mud-brick and historic village known as The Left Bank, Jacqueline and Catherine are lampwork artists who create glass beads in the flames of their torches, which are then made into jewellery. A range of hand-made gifts are available alongside local painter's artworks in the micro-gallery. Why not book in for one of their lampwork glass and jewellery-making workshops?

At Montsalvat, experience the feeling of being transported to another time and place as you meander around the stunning buildings and grounds set on 12 acres. Enjoy exhibitions across five galleries, discover the stunning sculptures adorning the buildings and gardens and take in beautiful views while relaxing with a picnic on the lawns.

Check out Gallery 7 six 5 in Watsons Creek near the Sugarloaf Reservoir Park. The gallery proudly showcases local artists across a variety of mediums. If you’re eager for even more art in your life, then keep an eagle eye on Nillumbik Artists Open Studios for news of upcoming events, including their ever-popular open studio weekends.

Edendale Community Environment Farm is a seven hectare working farm that sits alongside the Diamond Creek and the bike trail. Spend some time exploring Edendale and meet the chickens, alpacas, goats, cows, sheep and a variety of small native animals that call the farm home.

Visit St Andrews and surrounds and you’re bound to discover new gems - and rediscover some old favourites - all within easy reach of Melbourne.