The Best Restaurants and Cafes in Torquay
Share This Article
Situated on Wadawarrung Country on Victoria’s surf coast, Torquay is a town crammed between spectacular surf beaches, farmland, and the urban sprawl of regional centre, Geelong. The town is known for the annual Rip Curl Pro which happens at nearby Bells Beach every April, when the town bursts at the seams with surfers and surf fans alike.
Also Read: The Best Pubs in Geelong
Its peak time is summer, as tourists head to the town to hit the beaches and also rip into the best restaurants in Torquay. The town is full of great restaurants which attract people from around Victoria, and the rest of the country. These are the best restaurants and cafes in Torquay right now.
Pholklore
Pholklore is a Vietnamese street food restaurant owned by Tom McGrath, as well as brothers Josh and Dom Friend, and it’s impossible to write a list of the best restaurants in Torquay without including it. Since its establishment, Pholklore has been celebrated for its fusion of Vietnamese and Australian cultures, reflected in a menu that offers a delightful blend of traditional Vietnamese dishes and innovative fusion creations. From their famous Pho and Banh mi to the bold flavours of Bun bo hue, Goi cuon, and crispy Banh xeo, Pholklore delivers an authentic and mouthwatering Vietnamese dining experience. With its casual atmosphere and a reputation of excellence, Pholklore is a must-visit culinary destination in Torquay.
Find out more about Pholklore here.
Mortadeli
Mortadeli, a Mediterranean deli and sandwich bar in Torquay, offers a nostalgic dining experience. Founded by Jake Cassar in 2020, the deli serves delicious sandwiches like the “Conti roll” with mortadella, salami, provolone, and pickled vegetables. It also features a grocer with Mediterranean products, a small wine bar, and will soon unveil a pasta bar serving fresh, handmade dishes. Mortadeli is a popular destination for locals and tourists, open from 9am to 3pm daily. Experience the taste of the Mediterranean and indulge in the flavours of Mortadeli’s vibrant offerings. The Mortadeli team is currently converting their previous grocer space adjacent to the sandwich deli into an Italian restaurant.
Find out more about Mortadeli here.
Fisho’s
Fisho’s is a beloved seafood restaurant founded in 2012 by Matt and Sarah Beggs. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood, Fisho’s offers an array of delicious dishes, including fish and chips, fish tacos, seafood pasta, grilled fish, popcorn prawns, and calamari rings. The restaurant’s relaxed beachy atmosphere, full bar, and friendly service make it a popular choice among diners. Whether you’re craving a seafood feast or the classic fish and chips, Fisho’s is the perfect spot to indulge in fresh flavors of the sea.
Find out more about Fisho’s here.
Blackman’s Brewery
Blackman’s Brewery, a family-owned establishment, is renowned for its award-winning beers. Founded by brothers Ben and Paul Blackman in 2009, this brewery offers a diverse selection of IPAs, pale ales, stouts, porters, and sours. With three venues across Torquay, Geelong, and Ocean Grove, Blackman’s Brewery provides a welcoming atmosphere for beer lovers to enjoy delicious brews, tasty pub food, and vibrant events throughout the year. Experience the flavours of Reginald IPA, Mervyn Pale Ale, Arthur Smoked Porter, Ernie Tropical Hazy, O.G XPA, and Torquay XPA at Blackman’s Brewery.
Find out more about Blackman’s Brewery here.
The Kyn
The Kyn is a Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant, known for its fresh and flavourful cuisine. Founded by Pholklore team Tom McGrath, Josh Friend, and Yasmin Burton, The Kyn offers a menu inspired by Morocco, Turkey, and Lebanon and has quickly established itself as one of the best restaurants in Torquay. From mezze to kebabs and tagines, their dishes showcase the vibrant flavours of the region. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, The Kyn is a popular casual dining spot. Whether you’re craving falafel, hummus, lamb kebabs, or baklava, The Kyn delivers an authentic Middle Eastern dining experience.
Find out more about The Kyn here.
Il Matto
Il Matto, an Italian restaurant in Torquay, invites diners on a passionate culinary journey. Founded in 2005 by chef Marco Degli Stefani, this casual dining spot is known for its fresh and flavorful Italian dishes inspired by Tuscany, Liguria, and Sardinia. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Il Matto offers a delightful menu featuring pasta, pizza, risotto, seafood, and more. Enjoy the friendly service, relaxed ambience, and authentic flavours of Italy at Il Matto in Torquay.
Find out more about Il Matto here.
Torquay Hotel
The Torquay Hotel, established in 1879, is a historic pub and restaurant in Torquay. With three bars including a traditional pub, an upscale dining option, and a relaxing beer garden, it caters to diverse preferences. The venue is known for its live music events, friendly atmosphere, and a range of exciting offerings such as trivia nights and food and wine festivals. Whether you’re looking for a drink, a meal, or entertainment, the Torquay Hotel is the go-to spot in town.
Find out more about Torquay Hotel here.
Roku Den
Roku Den, a Japanese restaurant and sushi bar, offers an authentic and captivating dining experience. Founded in 2015 by chef Tomohiro Takei, the restaurant showcases a variety of fresh and flavourful Japanese dishes, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and ramen. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, Roku Den is a highly recommended spot to enjoy delicious cuisine inspired by the diverse flavours of Japan.
Find out more about Roku Den here.
Bomboras
Bomboras, a renowned restaurant with two locations in Torquay, offers a casual dining experience that delights the taste buds. Established in 1998 by chef Mark McNamara, the restaurant takes its name from the Bombora, a wave found off the coast of Torquay. With its welcoming atmosphere, Bomboras is the perfect place to enjoy delectable pizzas, pasta dishes, salads, and global mains. The pizzas feature fresh, local ingredients and homemade dough, while the pasta dishes boast flavorful sauces made from scratch. Completing the experience, Bomboras offers a full bar with a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, Bomboras is the ideal spot for a casual and enjoyable meal with friends and family.
Find out more about Bomboras here.