5 Best Restaurants in Great Ocean Road, Victoria

Up in the hinterland above the Great Ocean Road, in a village at a crossroads, sits one of Australia's most celebrated restaurants. Chef Dan Hunter's Brae serves a daily set menu renowned for its fine organic fare, much drawn from its own farm, which surrounds the dining room, the rest from ethical, sustainable suppliers of the highest quality. There are also six guest suites on the property, each accommodating two adults, from A$635 for two, including breakfast. Brae is 30 minutes from Lorne, 40 minutes from Geelong.

Seafood fresh from the fishing trawlers is the reason to visit this long-standing fisherman's co-op, located in Apollo Bay's working harbor. Rock lobster, shark, and barracouta are regulars on the menu, and scallop, octopus, giant crab, squid, and even abalone make an appearance. Regular fish-and-chip shop fare, such as calamari, flake, and burgers are always on the menu, the lobster and abalone are charged at market price---just check the specials board for the day's catch.

Enter this whitewashed stone hotel to find its café serving breakfast from 7 am, as well as lunch and dinner. The Oak & Anchor might have been around since 1857, but the food is fresh and light---try the quinoa porridge for breakfast or the Australian king prawns with sourdough for lunch. For a snack on the go, order a toastie stuffed with pesto and two cheeses, or a BLT. There are also six sunny little suites upstairs, if you can't drag yourself away.

This café’s Portuguese tarts, which are made in-house, have a dedicated following amongst Lorne’s café society. If you miss out, console yourself with a bag of loukoumades (Greek doughnuts), while those with a savory tooth will appreciate the fresh sourdough loaves by renowned Irrewarra bakery, and this modern Greek café's classic spanakopita.

A relaxed main street eatery with a spacious sundeck and friendly staff, open for breakfast from 6 am, there are daily fish and soup specials, and Devonshire teas with fresh scones. Waves also has self-contained rooms including some with spa baths.