The best seafood spots on The Great Ocean Road

Warrnambool offers a diverse culinary scene, and Images Restaurant & Cafe is a standout for seafood lovers. Warrnambool’s coastal location ensures access to incredibly fresh seafood. Expect to find classic dishes like fish and chips, seafood platters, and grilled fish of the day, all prepared with a focus on quality and flavor. Warrnambool itself is a great option when considering the great ocean road from Melbourne, as it is easily accessible as one of the final main towns on the drive.

Housed in the original Post Office building, Clock By The Bay in Portland is a must-visit destination for seafood lovers. This charming restaurant offers panoramic views of the harbour, making it one of the Great Ocean Road’s best places to stop for both scenery and sustenance. Chef Matthew Liscombe crafts a menu that celebrates local seafood, with dishes changing seasonally to reflect the freshest catches. The restaurant's signature seafood chowder, served in a locally made cob loaf, is a comforting delight that perfectly captures the essence of coastal dining.

Perched atop the Warrnambool Surf Lifesaving Club, Simon's Waterfront boasts some of the most spectacular views along the Great Ocean Road. This restaurant is a testament to why Warrnambool is a great stopping point to refuel. The menu showcases the best seafood great ocean road has to offer, with their seafood chowder being a standout dish. Served in a locally made cob loaf, it's a hearty and flavorful representation of the region's marine treasures. Simon's Waterfront caters to various dining preferences, from casual beers and gourmet burgers in their iconic beer garden to more refined dining experiences set against a coastal backdrop. The restaurant's versatility makes it a perfect stop for travelers seeking anything from a quick bite to a memorable dinner.

Described as a hidden gem, we guarantee that after one visit to Port Fairy’s Blakes Restaurant your tastebuds will be hooked. Tucked along Bank Street, this sensational seafood restaurant resides in Dublin House and promises a gourmet yet unpretentious experience. Quaint and the perfect resting spot on your Great Ocean Road adventure, visitors can also opt to sit in their courtyard that’s nestled by an assortment of towering trees. Aside from its relaxing vibe, the standout however is their freshly caught seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

A third of the journey along the Great Ocean Road from Torquay will land you in the seaside town of Lorne. Here, flagship seafood eatery Captain Hooked leads the reigns with its casual and down-to-earth shop. With plenty of traditional takeaway fish and chip shop options, Captain Hooked also has plenty of feast-worthy dishes to try including Hot Chilli Mussels, grilled Bubba Shrimps with garlic butter, whole fish and Coffin Bay Oysters to shuck through. Wash it down with a Pimms Classic or, if you’re sticking to booze-free options, try their Homemade Iced Tea.