Northern Ground

Top choice in Victoria


Opened in late 2018, this stylish cafe by expat British chef Rob Turner is symbolic of Bairnsdale's great gastronomic leap forward. Here the star is Gippsland produce, sourced from the immediate area to create a menu of fresh, seasonal and inventive takes on breakfast and lunch staples. All dishes are beautifully executed and presented.

For brekky expect the likes of locally smoked-bacon buttermilk pancakes; at lunch, choose between rare-roast-beef sandwiches, beef-ragu fettuccine or all-day Gippsland-produce platters. Dinner on Friday and Saturday features modern-European-inspired mains comprising roast meats and seafood with elaborate sides and trimmings. The wine list showcases neighbouring vineyards, and there are local craft beers as well as original smoothie and fresh-juice concoctions.