As a region renowned around the globe for its incredible wine, it should come as no surprise that the South West is ALSO home to an array of exceptional dining destinations. From fresh and succulent seafood to contemporary Australian heroing local meat and produce as fresh as they come, there is truly no shortage of delicious dining to enjoy around our beautiful coastline. We like to consider ourselves professional foodies by hobby, so we took it upon ourselves to compile a list of our top 5 favourite restaurants to dine at when you feel like heading out for a memorable meal during your True South Escape.
Picture this: you've just dried off after a dip in the ocean just moments away from your True South Escapes property, or spent the arvo lazing around the sparkly pool. Or perhaps you’ve just watched the colours of the vineyard transform under the setting sun from your verandah. The only way to make this day more perfect? A feast for the senses at one of the region's best restaurants. After all, you are on holiday ;)
We recommend organising your dining reservations in advance, particularly during busy seasonal holiday periods. Opening hours and days are subject to change depending on the season, which is another reason why we recommend phoning ahead to check. However, the below encompasses (in no particular order!) some of our must-try highlights for the region.
Located right in the heart of town, Blue Manna Bistro offers fresh seafood dining with an asian influence. Expect oysters baked with blue swimmer crab meat & creamy miso mayo, local Esperance scallops and crispy whole fish to share. With more than just seafood on offer, this place can happily satisfy the whole family - even those who don't eat fish!
Address: 1/16 Cyrillean Way, Dunsborough WA 6281
Hours: Tuesday: 4–9 pm, Wednesday: 4–9 pm, Thursday: 12–9 pm, Friday: 12–9 pm, Saturday: 12–9 pm
Closed: Monday & Sunday
After a busy afternoon of wine tasting around the region, why not finish the day with some tasty tapas in the heart of Margies. Morries offers modern Aussie fare, with menu highlights such as beef tataki, crushed chat potatoes and of course, a wicked dessert selection. Perhaps most impressive is the 30 page long drinks and cocktail menu - emphasising unique flavour fusions such as strawberry basil smash. YUM!
Address: Shop 2/149 Bussell Highway, Margaret River 6285 WA
Hours: Tuesday: 5–9 pm, Wednesday: 5–9 pm, Thursday: 5–9 pm, Friday: 5–10 pm, Saturday: 5–10 pm
Closed: Monday & Sunday
Sourcing produce from ethical and sustainable farmers, as well as their organic off-site farm, Yarri's four course menu showcases the finest seasonal flavours for a true taste of our region. With a small but impressive menu, diners will be delighted by Chef Aaron Carr's take on modern Australian plates such as duck and rabbit terrine and wood grilled 650gm sirloin served with black garlic and miso butter. Wines from local partnering winery Snake + Herring can accompany this tasting menu by choice, or you can opt for one of their delectable cocktails such as their Coconut Espresso Martini.
Address: Unit 7/16 Cyrillean Way, Dunsborough WA 6281
Hours: Monday 4-11pm, Tuesday: 4-11 pm, Wednesday: 4–11pm, Thursday: 4–11pm, Friday: 12–11 pm, Saturday: 12–11 pm
Closed: Sunday
If you haven't ever made it to Miki's during one of your Down South visits, consider this your sign to book now. The "Mikis Trust" menu encompasses 14 elements with a main of your choice such as panko crumbed Blackwood Valley beef or amiyaki duck breast, while the "Mikis Complete" takes you through a journey of up to 23 elements on the plate including the same main options with drink pairing recommendations along the way. Why not try the sake pairing for the ultimate indulgence.
Address: 131 Bussell Hwy, Margaret River WA 6285
Hours: Tues to Saturday 6pm - 11pm
Closed: Monday & Sunday
Let's be honest - when are you ever NOT in the mood for pizza? Thankfully, Bungalow has you covered for any cravings. With arguably the region's best pizza dough (including an incredible gluten-free base for any coeliacs in the group) Bungalow must make it onto your must-try dinner list. Much more than just a pizza spot - the menu also includes plates such as BBQ lamb skewers, half roast chicken and house made focaccia. Enjoy dine in or why not grab take-away and bring it back to your True South Escape property (if you can make it through the car ride without sampling a slice!).
Address: 226 Naturaliste Terrace, Dunsborough, WA, Australia
Hours: Tues 3pm- Late, Wed & Thurs 3pm-10.30pm, Fri & Sat 12pm-11.45pm, Sun 12pm-10pm
Closed: Monday
While winery and brewery lunches may be our usual specialty, rest assured there's still no shortage of delicious dining to be had after sunset here in the South West. We hope you enjoy making your way through our food guide and be sure to check out our other blogs on where to dine for any other occasions during your stay.
