Chilly days and fireside dining are the quintessential Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges experience.
When winter arrives, the Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges are ready with roaring fires, warm-you-up wintry walks and delicious food and wine that make winter days and nights a celebration of cool. There are plenty of places where you won’t need to tear yourself away from the hearth!
Where can you experience fireside dining? Check out our suggestions below:
Paradise Valley Hotel, Clematis
You'll love dining by the fire at Paradise Valley Hotel! Located within an easy 50-minute drive from Melbourne's CBD, Paradise Valley Hotel is owner-operated with community, sustainability and local produce at its core. Discover the award-winning, contemporary bistro, well-stocked public bar, stunning views and a leafy beer garden.
Season Restaurant @ Cloudehill Gardens, Olinda
Outside the horizon is misty and the surrounding woodlands are dripping with an air of mystery. Inside Seasons, it’s warm and friendly, and so delicious. The fireplace is the gathering place at Seasons – a place to share a pre-dinner drink or survey an unhurried world.
Set in the tranquil Yarra Valley, Isabella's Restaurant at Rochford Wines invites you to unwind by the crackling fireplace, where the scent of delicious meals fills the air. Savour their signature tender meat dishes, hearty vegetarian options, and decadent desserts—all perfectly paired with their award-winning cool climate wines.
Enjoy the warmth of complimentary mulled wine tastings as you take in the stunning views of the vineyard, adding a cozy touch to your visit— a true haven of rustic elegance and genuine hospitality.
With a view of rolling hills and dramatic winter skies, you’ll feel all the more tucked in and cosy when dining fireside at Fondata 1872. The fireplace had been the central focus of these historical buildings since 1872!
Babajis Kerala Kitchen, Warburton
Curries on a cold day, beside an open fire. You’ve got us! Chef Hatted, South Indian restaurant, Babajis Kerala Kitchen can be found on the entry to Warburton and boasts two open fires. You’ll also often find a roaring fire pit beside the river on clear days.
My Little Kitchen, Healesville
Daytime dining at My Little Kitchen is light, bright, warm and toasty when the open fire is roaring. Local fare is featured on the seasonal menu, and the coffee is to die for. Tucked away in Healesville it’s a great spot to drop in and shed your layers.
Sutherland Estate, Dixons Creek
A cellar door with an open fire! Yes, it’s true and romantic and full of ambient charm. A visit to Sutherland Estate (which hosts weddings and special events, and has accommodation you may never leave!) is something to warm the heart and soul. Award-winning wines and views across the valley are all part of the experience.
Yarra Valley Grand Hotel, Yarra Glen
An iconic hotel on the main street of Yarra Glen, the Yarra Valley Grand Hotel has several open fireplaces to keep you warm in winter. Check out the hearty meals, craft beers, local wines and country hospitality and enjoy some toe-tapping live music (most weekends) for some awesome winter vibes that will keep you toasty warm.
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. The restaurant serves fresh, informal, locally sourced food for lunch and dinner, washed down with Coldstream beers and ciders plus a well-stocked bar that supports other Yarra Valley producers. Their fireplace adds to the charm and keeps diners warm and cosy on winter days and nights.
SOUMAH of Yarra Valley, Gruyere
SOUMAH of Yarra Valley have a beautiful fireplace in their Piazza Bar, where, on weekends, they offer food and wine tastings. This area is not bookable so make sure to get there early to secure this popular spot. Enjoy wines by the glass, delicious snacks and an amazing wine tasting experience at this stunning winery.