The Clare Valley isn’t just about wine; learn about the best dining experiences in the area!
This is, after all, wine country. I mean, who goes home thirsty? But you’re hungry for more, and as you turn the key to start the engine, your stomach is already grumbling…
Fortunately for you, we don’t do things halfway around here. Not only do we believe that world-class wines ought to be paired with world-class cuisine, but it’s also a way of life for us. You should immediately start carving an extra notch into your favourite belt…
Fine Dining Opportunities
Let’s be real. While a stuffed-crust pizza and a bucket of fried chicken sound like a fun Saturday night in, it’s not why you came on vacation. It’s good news. We’re a true foodie’s paradise, and if you’re searching for something truly unique, there are many options to amp up the indulgence and elevate your taste buds.
Slate Restaurant @ Pikes Wines
Slate Restaurant at Pikes Wines is perched high above the soils that make some of Australia’s best Rieslings. It offers a chef-prepared feast of Modern Australian cuisine with a European twist on each mouthwatering dish. You can expect a variety of seasonal hand-picked ingredients to be on your plate. Often fresh from the kitchen garden, there is a changing menu. You’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the vineyard from wherever you are seated as you sip and taste your way through this menu.
Seed Clare Valley
Seed Clare Valley has been widely acclaimed as the place that brought the gin to Clare. It is a fully integrated bistro, deli and rooftop bar that will have you toasting to Clare. The Deli offers a European-inspired menu that uses local ingredients. By day, it’s all about stopping by to pick up small goods and cheeses for your picnic or for a quick wood-fire pizza with your friends. The downstairs area is transformed into a European-inspired dining experience at night. It features a tapas-style menu that includes anything from cold-smoked salmon and rare breed pork chops, as well as some delicious little side dishes to delight your taste buds. For pre or post-dinner cocktails, don’t forget the rooftop!
Ragu & Co
Ragu & Co are meticulous about every detail. Every plate is a treasure trove of Italian goodness. The place has rustic charm with exposed bricks, wine barrels, wood beams and a feel that will make you feel like you are in a provincial Italian village. This place is a showcase of the traditional Italian cuisine mixed with creativity and simplicity, while still offering modern and simple dining. This place, while unapologetically old-school, isn’t afraid of combining traditional recipes with new ideas. If you haven’t tried their signature Ragus (Maccheroni Al Ragu Napoletano, Trofie al Ragu di Agnello), don’t hesitate to order and drop everything.
Terroir Auburn
Terroir Alabama celebrates all things Clare Valley with a strict locavore policy and a constantly changing menu that blends new culinary techniques and old traditions. Locally sourced meats are paired with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs from the kitchen garden. You’ll enjoy a four-course chef’s tasting experience that’s matched with local wines, as well as a three-course daily meal. The place is all about quality, old-school cooking.
Indii of Clare
It’s easy to be misled by its simple interior. Indii Of Clare has received rave reviews for its authentic Indian cuisine for many years. It’s a simple, honest restaurant that blends old traditions with modern presentation and incorporates flavours from almost every part of India. It’s a local legend that serves up top-quality meats from the region and a wide range of drinks including wine, gin, and single malt whiskeys.
Watervale Hotel
This is not your average pub. The Watervale Hotel is a hot spot in South Australia. The owners of Clare Valley are proud to showcase their local produce. They pick the finest ingredients from their garden and then create some of the best dinners you have ever seen. To really understand the permaculture, organic, and bio-dynamic principles behind their amazing dishes, you should take the chef-guided farm tour. After exploring Penobscot Farm and tasting the wines, enjoy a degustation meal.
Skillogalee Winery & Restaurant
You’ll feel like you have died sitting under the dappled sunlight of an old olive tree. This place is a culinary landmark in Clare Valley. It is well-known for its top-quality local food and stunning vineyard views. You’ll enjoy a casual atmosphere and an a la carte menu that highlights local seasonal produce. Many ingredients are grown right from the cottage vegetable garden. This place is a great choice for a memorable meal. It’s also very popular so book ahead.
Wineries That Offer a Little More…
We all know how impressive a vineyard platter can be, and cuddling up with a wheel of cheese while sipping fine wine can be almost meditative (check out our guide to wineries with awesome platers right here). But what if you want something more? As locals will tell you, many cellar doors take food as seriously as their wine. Here are a few of the best…
O’Leary Walker Wines
It’s worth stopping by O’Leary Walker wines for a delicious gourmet platter with views of the vineyards. You’ll find an excellent restaurant, which has been renovated recently. Their lunch menu celebrates seasonality and the provenance of produce. It will be difficult to resist their hand-cut spinach pasta, slow-cooked pork belly, or duck pate. Don’t forget to enjoy their delicious picnic experience when it’s shining.
Reilly’s Wines
Reilly’s wines in Mintaro are a foodie’s dream. In addition to its delicious a la carte menus, there’s a five-course long lunch that will keep you busy for hours. Expect plenty of delicious, hearty food and equally extraordinary wines. You can think: crispy skinned Barramundi and slow braised lamb shanks. There are also a variety of desserts that will impress. And how about a fortified dessert? We don’t mind if you do…
Mr Mick Cellar Door and the Kitchen
Mr Mick Cellar door and Kitchen are located in the heart Clare. They combine food, wine, and art. Now they have a way to cycle the best of the region. You can take a ride on their Ride, Riesling and Relax adventure to enjoy the most beautiful scenery of Clare before heading to Tim Adams for a single-vineyard wine and cheese tasting. After a delicious fortified experience and chocolate pairing, you will be transported to Sevenhill Cellars before being taken out on a ride to their amazing cellar door restaurant for tapas.
Paulett Wines & Bush DeVine Cafe
Paulett Wines & Bush DeVine Café offers a relaxing deck perfect for luncheons. Enjoy the views of rolling hills and vineyards while you soak in the flavors of the Australian bush. After enjoying their delicious, natively inspired cuisine, it will be difficult to leave. They have some of the best vino in the area. This is bush tucker at it’s best.
Mitchell Wines
Mitchell Wines is housed in an old stone apple shed. They have a reputation for being one of Clare Valley’s most trusted wineries. You will also find a wide range of tastings and wines to suit your taste buds. Their amazing Vineyard Lunch and Masterclass will give you a glimpse into the homestead and its many vineyards. You’ll also enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the vines by their friends at Terroir.