As Australia shakes off Winter’s chill, Spring dining bursts to life with vibrant flavours and fresh produce. Menus showcase tender asparagus, sweet peas, new-season lamb and juicy berries, celebrating the season’s bounty.
Coastal eateries embrace lighter, brighter dishes, from zesty seafood platters to crisp salads layered with herbs and edible flowers. Alfresco dining becomes a daily pleasure, with sunlit courtyards, rooftop bars and vineyard terraces drawing crowds.
Chefs lean into creativity, pairing local wines with colourful plates that capture Spring’s freshness. Whether it’s a long lunch, picnic in the park or sunset feast, Australia’s spring table is all about renewal.
Here are five restaurants to find the best of Spring dining on the plate:
Perched on the Blackall Range with sweeping views from the Hinterland to the coast, Flaxton Gardens is a Sunshine Coast icon for dining and celebrations. Set among manicured gardens, vineyards and elegant architecture, it blends rustic charm with warm hospitality. Guests can soak up panoramic sunsets from the terrace or enjoy the stylish interior with high ceilings and chandeliers.
Showcasing fresh, local produce, the menu ranges from leisurely lunches to indulgent High Teas and weddings. Flaxton Gardens is where breathtaking scenery, delicious food and a romantic atmosphere create lasting memories in the heart of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.
Nestled in the leafy hills of Glenhaven, Entrata offers a warm embrace of rustic elegance and Italian charm. Stone walls, timber beams and softly glowing lights create an inviting, romantic ambience reminiscent of a Tuscan villa. The scent of wood-fired creations drifts from the open kitchen, where fresh, seasonal produce is transformed into dishes bursting with flavour.
Sunlit terraces spill into lush gardens, perfect for leisurely dining under blue skies, while cosy interiors invite lingering over wine by candlelight. Entrata blends country tranquillity with refined dining, delivering a sensory journey that feels both heart warmingly familiar and wonderfully indulgent.
Located on the Torquay foreshore, Doc Hughes captures the essence of coastal dining with panoramic ocean views and a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Sunlight streams through wide windows, glinting off glasses of chilled wine as the scent of freshly prepared seafood drifts from the kitchen.
Contemporary décor meets relaxed beachside charm, with warm timber tones, soft lighting and the hum of happy conversation. From crisp calamari to decadent desserts, each plate bursts with flavour and artistry. Whether it’s a long lunch, sunset drink or intimate dinner, Doc Hughes delivers a memorable experience infused with seaside tranquillity and the energy of Victoria’s Surf Coast.
Glenbosch Wine Estate in Beechworth is a serene haven where rolling vineyards meet the rugged beauty of Victoria’s High Country. Surrounded by golden hills and crisp mountain air, the estate blends rustic charm with refined elegance. Visitors are greeted by sweeping views, warm hospitality, and an inviting cellar door showcasing handcrafted wines that capture the essence of the region.
The atmosphere is peaceful yet vibrant, with the scent of oak barrels and the hum of conversation filling the air. Whether sipping a velvety Shiraz or enjoying a long lunch, Glenbosch offers an immersive experience of nature, flavour and connection.
The Black Footed Pig Tapas Bar & Kitchen in Hobart blends the vibrant flavours of Spain with the finest Tasmanian produce, creating a dining experience to remember. Warm, moody lighting and exposed brick walls set the scene for an evening of shared plates and conversation, while the aroma of garlic, smoked paprika and sizzling seafood fills the air.
Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, from melt-in-the-mouth charcuterie to rich lamb belly and seasonal vegetables with a modern twist. Overlooking the picturesque waterfront, this is a place where food, wine and atmosphere combine to deliver a celebration of flavour, warmth and connection.
