Once known as a quiet port city, Geelong has transformed into a vibrant culinary hub bursting with diverse flavours and atmospheric venues. With its waterfront charm and thriving local produce scene, Geelong boasts an impressive array of restaurants that range from casual seaside eats to fine dining with a creative edge.

Located southwest of Melbourne and just an hour’s drive from Queenscliff Ferry Terminal, Geelong is quickly becoming a go-to destination for foodies and culinary enthusiasts across Victoria. And if you’re coming from the Mornington Peninsula, a 40-minute ride on Searoad Ferries makes the journey even more special. Just a short, scenic cruise across the bay, and you’re off to a gourmet excursion that’s one for the books.

Ready to explore your next foodie destination? This guide brings you 10 of the top restaurants in Geelong, carefully selected to help you discover your next memorable meal.

1. Sailors' Rest - Top Restaurant in Geelong

Set right by the waterfront of Corio Bay, Sailors’ Rest is a crowd favourite among Geelong locals and visitors alike. Its diverse menu options of locally sourced seafood, scenic location, and top-notch customer service earn its spot as one of the top restaurants in Geelong.

What You Should Try:

• Fish and chips with garden salad and tartare sauce
• Crumbed calamari with chips, salad, and tartare sauce
• Chicken Parmi with ham, Napoli sauce, mozzarella, and a side of chips and salad
• Fettuccini marinara with scallops, prawns, mussels, calamari, garlic, chilli, and Napoli sauce
• 100% wagyu beef burger with bacon, lettuce, tomato, onion, Swiss cheese, and served with chips with tomato sauce, mayonnaise, and mustard

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Soak up the relaxed Geelong vibe in their light-filled dining room or go for bayside al fresco seating where the waterfront views set the tone for a leisurely meal. The Beer Garden and rooftop bar are perfect for a casual catch-up over drinks. For something a little more elevated, make your way to the second-floor lounge to settle in with a cocktail.

Address: 3 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“Amazing, fast service and delicious food and cocktails! Very busy for a Wednesday night but the staff were super efficient and all the food was absolutely delicious!” — Chelsea

“There were lots of seating options, inside and out. Service was great and helpful. Definitely worth a stop for a drink or food if you’re in the area.” — Brian O.

“The atmosphere was beautiful in a covered semi-outdoor area with beautiful views of the bay. The service was great and staff were all very attentive to us. The food was fresh and delicious!” — Tina

2. ALMA Restaurant - Best for Fine Dining

ALMA Restaurant showcases the best of South American-inspired cuisine, perfect for a romantic dinner, celebratory lunch, or special occasion. With a menu that draws inspiration from Latino spices, herbs, and cooking techniques, ALMA is sure to take you on a culinary adventure in a stylish yet refined setting.

What You Should Try:

• Chef’s Selection
• Sher Wagyu rump cap
• Potato, cheese, and olive empanada with chipotle mayonnaise
• Crispy potato with garlic and parsley butter

What It’s Like Dining Here:

The interior’s charcoal and teal tones create a moody atmosphere, while its stylish murals give off a modern, artistic vibe. ALMA Restaurant has that kind of setting that invites long, leisurely dinners, where food is shared along with intimate conversations.

Address: 93-95 Ryrie St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“The service was amazing everyone was so personal and professional. They did a fantastic job in making us feel so relaxed even in such a “fancy” environment.” — Simone

“The food was incredible. The flavors were well thought out, everything was rich and full of flavor but also beautiful balanced.” — Maddy B.

“Food is exceptional. All meals cooked and prepared to perfection, bursting with flavour and beautifully presented. A great selection of drinks and the service was very good.” — Todd B.

 

3. Recess Bar + Eats - Best Restaurant for Lunch

Recess Bar + Eats prides itself as Geelong’s only certified gluten-free restaurant. With their generous offerings and lively atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to be if you want an indulgent lunch in Geelong with a side of fun and flair.

What You Should Try:

• Saturday Bottomless Brunch, featuring bottomless cocktails, sparkling wines, spirits, and tap beer for 2 hours, plus five courses of shared food.
• Sunday Drag Brunch, featuring drinks for 2 hours and five courses of shared food, all with a live drag performance.
• Braised beef cheek with grilled leek, nam jim jaew, cauliflower puree, and pickled red cabbage
• Cauliflower macaroni and cheese with truffle oil

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Recess Bar + Eats makes every visit a celebration with its bright, energetic, and fun atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where the entertainment is flavourful as the food, the cocktails flow freely, and the vibe is always welcoming.

Address: 247 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“Great food, stunning atmosphere, and a menu that caters to everyone.” — Harinduni K.

“Plenty of options for GF, DF patrons and all were beautifully presented and delicious. Great selection of Cocktails and drinks to please everyone.” — Tess L.

“Couldn't recommend more highly for delicious food & cocktails, quick service and the best vibes in Geelong.” — Simone L.

 

4. Fishermen's Pier - Best Waterfront Restaurant

A visit to the port city is not complete without dining at one of the Geelong waterfront restaurants, and Fishermen’s Pier is a long-standing favourite. Perched right by the water, this iconic spot offers sweeping views of Corio Bay, setting the perfect backdrop for a seafood feast.

What You Should Try:

• Lunch seafood platter of whole king prawns, natural oysters, beer-battered fish, battered prawns, scallops, and dusted lemon and pepper squid, all served with crispy fries, salad, and tartare sauce
• Seafood chowder with mussels, scallops, fish, squid and prawns in a butter-rich creamy soup served with grilled sourdough
• Pan-seared Japanese scallops, chorizo, charred corn salsa, and nori mayo
• Perri perri prawn, featuring charred whole king prawns with green papaya and herb salad

What It’s Like Dining Here:

The boat-style restaurant makes you feel connected to Geelong’s maritime heritage as you dine. With panoramic windows framing views of Corio Bay and the surrounding boats drifting by, Fishermen’s Pier offers a dining experience that is both scenic and relaxing.

Address: 1a Yarra St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“A great place to enjoy a seafood platter while watching the sunset over the harbour—perfect for a date or seafood lovers!” — Meng-Hsuan L.

“Great little spot on the Geelong Waterfront for tasty meals, attentive service, and calm views over the water.” — Giota

“Asked for a table upstairs for nice views of the water. Quality ingredients used and both fish and prawns were cooked well.” — Tommi H.

5. Tulip Restaurant - Best Restaurant for Dinner

Having received a Chef’s Hat in the Good Food Guide over multiple years, Tulip Restaurant has cemented its place as one of the best places to eat in Geelong. Its selection of modern dishes and Victorian wines makes it a standout choice among Geelong restaurants for dinner nights that call for a true taste of local produce.

What You Should Try:

• Hanger steak with hot miso mustard, pepper leaf jus
• Kangaroo carpaccio with smoked aioli and preserved lemon

What It’s Like Dining Here:

With its contemporary, rustic-chic decor, Tulip Restaurant strikes the perfect balance between stylish and welcoming. Its minimalist decor directs the eye to the feature piece of the restaurant: a beautifully crafted timber bar where the wine selection beckons intimate date nights and relaxed group gatherings.

Address: 9/111 Pakington St, Geelong VIC 3218, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“Tulip certainly deserves its awards and recognitions as a great restaurant. Our experience for dinner was spot on. Quite casual, but very good personal service and great food.” — David M.

“Food was great. Clever chefing with textures and temperature contrasts. Really enjoyable. But the greatest compliment goes to the service. Friendly, engaging and personable.” — Theresa H.

“We had an absolutely wonderful dinner! Thoroughly enjoyed every course and were treated to comfortable, friendly and attentive service.” — Maisie W.

 

6. Little Creatures Geelong - Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant

Little Creatures Geelong is one of the best kid-friendly restaurants in Geelong that combines hearty, crowd-favourite food with plenty of space for kids to explore and play. Here, parents can unwind with a bottle of beer while the kids stay entertained after a snack or meal.

What You Should Try:

• Pizza (margherita, pepperoni, spiced lamb, funghi, carnivora, roasted pumpkin, or gamberi)
• Rogers’ rib rack, with pork ribs, chipotle maple glaze, buttermilk herbed slaw, corn chilli salsa, baka sauce, and flour tortilla
• Burger, with Angus beef, haloumi, or plant-based options

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Little Creatures Geelong’s expansive space is perfect for big family gatherings with its communal tables and a lively atmosphere. Its play space is designed for kids to burn off energy while the adults enjoy locally brewed beer and pub favourites.

Address: ​​221 Swanston St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“A lovely spacious venue. Enjoyed the food and the kids had a great time in the indoor playground. Highly recommend.” — Hannah

“Friendly staff, good space for kids and food was good.” — Brayden W.

“Good service, large venue with playground. Good selection of beers and food. Outdoor area is nice with umbrella seating.” — Mister M.

7. Sodi Café - Best Dog-Friendly Restaurant

Sodi Café welcomes pups and pooches as one of the fully licensed dog friendly restaurants in Geelong. With a specially curated menu designed to accommodate both humans and pooches, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee or brunch without leaving your furry friend behind.

What You Should Try:

• Buttermilk French toast with cinnamon sugar coating, vanilla bean ice cream, fresh strawberries, house crème anglaise, and crushed pistachios
• Bacon
• Spicy scramble with Geelong Chilli Co. ‘Umami Hit’ chilli oil, spinach, shallots, parmesan, spring onion, and smashed avocado on toasted ciabatta
• Cream-based pan-fried potato gnocchi with chorizo, bacon, peas, spinach, topped with parmesan and spring onions

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Sodi Café has a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes four-legged guests and their hoomans feel right at home. With cosy interiors and a relaxed outdoor seating perfect for sunny mornings, it’s an ideal spot for brunch dates, coffee catch-ups, or simply treating your pup to a day out.

Address: 149 Pakington St, Geelong West VIC 3218, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“The menu is really well set out and includes many GF, DF and V options. Staff are always very friendly and helpful. The cafe is Dog friendly, and you can even purchase doggy biscuits and muffin treats.” — Susie C.

“Cosy Cafe with heaps of seats. Dog friendly. Fast and friendly service and great coffee.” — James R.

“Very lovely food and some of the best coffee I’ve had in Geelong. Very accommodating, we brought our dog with us to breakfast and sat outside.” — Timothy M.

 

8. Siam Alley - Hidden Gem Restaurant

Siam Alley is one of the best hidden restaurants in Geelong that serves flavourful Thai-Asian cuisine that deserves to be on every local foodie’s radar. Established in 2019, this restaurant is quietly building a loyal following with its authentic dishes that bring a taste of Thailand to the heart of Geelong. A popular find for those exploring off the beaten path.

What You Should Try:

• Khao soi with slow-cooked chicken, chicken schnitzel, and pork belly options
• Crying tiger with grilled marinated beef and side salad, and Thai nam jim jaew
• Crispy pork belly with basil stir-fried

What It’s Like Dining Here:

The laid-back atmosphere at Siam Alley makes it an ideal spot for casual dinners or sit-down midday meals. Various Thai-inspired memorabilia plastered on the walls give the space an authentic feel that complements the menu’s bold flavours.

Address: 1/129 Pakington St, Geelong West VIC 3218, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“Perfection is the closest word we can think of to describe the food! We’ll be back!” — Wiliv

“Food was amazing! Their menu has so many different dishes from other Thai places around here which is great! I love the atmosphere of this place, it’s super cute and has a laid back Thai vibe.” — RM

“MY NEW FAVE THAI RESTAURANT IN GEELONG. Every dish was flavoursome, well executed and beautifully presented.” — Nicole V.

9. Hyderabad House - Indian Cuisine & Authentic Biryani - Best Indian Halal Restaurant

If you’re in the mood for something rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying, Hyderabad House - Indian Cuisine & Authentic Biryani is your go-to spot. Known as one of the best halal restaurants in Geelong, this place prides itself on affordable all-you-can-eat authentic Indian dishes made with traditional spices, slow-cooked methods, and bold, unforgettable flavours.

What You Should Try:

• Mutton dum biryani with slow-cooked meat and rice in layers served with spicy gravy and raita
• Chicken 65 biryani
• Gulab jamun
• Butter naan
• Paneer 65
• Goat haleem with savoury porridge made with meat, wheat, lentils, and spices

What It’s Like Dining Here:

Dining at Hyberabad House is like being invited to a traditional Indian family feast, warm, welcoming, and filled with the comforting aromas of spices simmering to perfection. The casual setting lets the food take centre stage, making it a favourite for those craving homestyle curries and biryanis.

Address: 221 Moorabool St, Geelong VIC 3220, Australia

What People Have to Say:

“The food quality was outstanding — every dish felt like it was prepared with genuine care and attention.” — Arefin S.

“The flavors were spot on—authentic, perfectly balanced, and not overly spicy, making it suitable for everyone. This place offers not just food but an experience that reminds you of home and festive gatherings in India.” — Saumya SK

“Every dish we tried was fresh and packed with rich, bold flavors. Highly recommend this place to anyone craving delicious and genuine Hyderabadi cuisine. A five-star experience.” — Abdul J.

 

10. Kalye Marinas Filipino Grill and Seafood - Best Seafood Restaurant

Craving something different? Kalye Marinas Filipino Grill and Seafood brings the rich flavours of the Philippines to Geelong, specialising in grilled seafood that’s packed with punchy, tropical flair. Kalye Marinas is one of the best restaurants in Geelong that offer the freshest seafood, all served with warm Filipino hospitality.

What You Should Try:

• Seafood boil special with pawns, baby octopus, mussels, clams, king crab leng, mudcrab, blue swimmer crab, corn, potato, and egg
• Sizzling seafood or pork sisig with mixed mayo, onion, and chillies
• Crispy pork kare-kare with crispy pata slices (fried pork hock), kare-kare sauce, beans, bokchoy, and eggplant
• Vegetable spring roll served with sweet chilli sauce
• Bang bang chicken BBQ skewer with atchara and vinaigrette
• Turon (jackfruit and banana spring roll) served with ube ice cream and ube halaya

What It’s Like Dining Here:

With underwater-inspired interior and colourful murals, dining at Kalye Marinas feels like a festive escape to the Philippine archipelago. For small groups, pairs, and solo diners, the front dining area offers a casual spot to enjoy seafood platters, while larger groups can gather inside for a true Filipino-style feast.

Address: Shop 4/112 Pakington St, Geelong West VIC 3218, Australia

What People Have to Say:

Had an amazing experience at Kalye Marinas! The seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful, and the service was warm and welcoming. Loved the Filipino-inspired seafood boil—everything was cooked to perfection! Highly recommend for anyone craving delicious seafood in Geelong!” — Class B.

“Who would have thought that eating seafood like no one's watching would be so much fun. Food was good and the all fish were fresh and cooked to perfection. We had a great time.” — Kierstin F.

“This would have to be the best Filipino restaurant we have been! Staff were friendly and accommodating. Food was  scrumptious, generous and delicious! it is a place that makes you want to come back!” — Joy F-A

 

Explore Geelong's Dining Scene with Searoad Ferries

When looking for things to do in Geelong, make sure to include visiting its vibrant dining scene. Make a day (or weekend) of it with a scenic journey across the bay aboard Searoad Ferries. Whether you're coming from the Mornington Peninsula or looking to add an extra splash of adventure to your foodie trip, the ferry ride offers stunning views and great drinks and snacks onboard! So, get ready to indulge, discover, and savour every bite as you explore restaurants in Geelong.