Melbourne’s 14 Best Lunch Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)

Melbourne is a city that loves its food and surrounds itself with some of Australia’s most scenic and delicious destinations. Whether you’re craving a leisurely winery lunch, a scenic coastal drive combined with a delicious meal, or a relaxing river cruise with gourmet dining, Melbourne’s diverse lunch experiences cater to all tastes. Our favorites include the Great Ocean Road day trip—which combines stunning coastal views with a light onboard lunch—and the Yarra Valley winery tours, offering exquisite wines paired with hearty meals amid rolling vineyards. Plus, if you’re into relaxing in thermal springs or enjoying a river cruise, Melbourne’s options won’t disappoint. For example, the Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise offers a gourmet meal with city views, and the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs provides a rejuvenating soak with excellent local food. Whatever your style, Melbourne makes it easy to enjoy a memorable midday meal in a beautiful setting.

Quick Overview

This list includes a variety of day trips and guided tours that feature lunch—ranging from scenic coastal drives, wine tastings, and brewery visits to river cruises and hot springs. For scenic coastal views, the Great Ocean Road day trips are perfect. Wine lovers can choose from immersive Yarra Valley wine tours and private helicopter experiences. If you prefer relaxing with a glass of wine and a dip in natural hot springs, options like the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs are excellent. Lastly, river cruises, such as the Spirit of Melbourne, combine sightseeing and fine dining.

1. Great Ocean Road, 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge & lunch – Melbourne

At number 1, this full-day tour offers incredible coastal scenery with the bonus of avoiding crowds by traveling in reverse. The tour includes live commentary from your driver-guide, a light lunch, and comfortable air-conditioned transport. Depart early from Melbourne to see the Twelve Apostles in the morning light, before crowds arrive—an advantage that many reviews appreciate. The tour also visits Loch Ard Gorge and Maits Rest rainforest, making it a well-rounded day of natural beauty and storytelling. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see wildlife like koalas and kangaroos. The tour’s value lies in the full itinerary, comfortable transport, and expert commentary. It’s perfect for those wanting a scenic adventure without sacrificing comfort or local insights.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a comprehensive, well-organized day trip with fewer crowds and stunning photo opportunities.

2. Melbourne: Yarra Valley Wine Tour + Lunch & Gin/Beer Option

Number 2 on our list is the Yarra Valley Wine Tour, which combines wine tasting, a two-course lunch, and optional visits to a brewery or gin distillery. The tour departs from Melbourne’s Arts Centre and visits four distinct venues, including Yering Station and Helen & Joey Estate. The highlight is the delicious shared antipasto and personal main at a winery restaurant, along with tastings at some of Victoria’s finest wineries. Guests love the mix of wine, cider, and spirits, especially the flexibility of switching to a brewery or distillery. The tour is a great value if you enjoy wine and food, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights into the region’s production. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts wanting a relaxed, all-in day with plenty of tastings and a hearty lunch.

Bottom Line: Perfect for wine lovers who want a full day of tastings, delicious food, and customizable options for spirits or beer.

3. Yarra Valley wine and gin tour with Champagne Lunch at Chandon!

Number 3 is a more luxurious take on the Yarra Valley experience, offering a Champagne brunch at Chandon and private cellar-door tastings. This private tour is ideal if you want a more intimate experience, with personalized service. The itinerary includes a sparkling wine tasting at Chandon, visits to boutique wineries, and tastings at the Yarra Valley Dairy and Chocolaterie. Guests rave about the delicious brunch and the seamless, worry-free transportation. The tour’s premium pricing reflects its exclusivity and high-quality food and drink experiences, making it suited for couples or small groups celebrating a special occasion. The personal touch and fine wines make this one of the most memorable options.

Bottom Line: A top choice for couples or groups seeking a refined, private wine and food experience with a touch of luxury.

4. Melbourne: Full-Day Yarra Valley Wine Experience with Lunch

Number 4 features a full-day guided wine tour of Victoria’s Yarra Valley, with visits to four premium wineries and a delicious lunch. Starting from Melbourne’s Immigration Museum, the day includes tastings at Greenstone Vineyards, Yering Farm, Soumah, and Tokar Estate, topped with a restaurant meal paired with local wines. The guide provides insights into the region’s wine-making history, making it both educational and relaxing. Guests praise the well-paced itinerary, comfortable transport, and quality wines and food. The tour is priced competitively and offers good value for a full, immersive experience. It suits those who want a complete wine day with expert guidance and a hearty lunch in a scenic setting.

Bottom Line: Ideal for wine aficionados or those looking for a comprehensive, well-organized vineyard visit with excellent food.

5. Yarra Valley Winery Tour from Melbourne – Lunch included

Number 5 delivers a full-day winery tour with lunch, starting in central Melbourne and visiting top vineyards including Domaine Chandon and Yering Farm. The tour features several tastings, a two-course lunch, and engaging commentary from your guide. Guests consistently mention the great variety of wineries and the delicious meal at Soumah. The guide, Ian, earns praise for her knowledge and friendliness, creating a relaxed atmosphere. The tour offers good value, especially if you want to combine multiple wineries with a satisfying meal. It’s best suited for those who want a balanced day of tastings, scenic views, and local food.

Bottom Line: A dependable, enjoyable option for travelers who want a full day of wine, food, and friendly guiding.

6. Melbourne: Great Ocean Road Ultimate 12 Apostles with Lunch

Number 6 delivers a comprehensive 13-hour adventure along the Great Ocean Road, including lunch and visits to the 12 Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge. The tour travels in comfort, avoiding crowds by taking the reverse route, and explores the rainforest in Great Otway National Park. Guests love the personalized stops, wildlife sightings, and the historic Memorial Arch. The long day may be tiring but is rewarding for those eager to see iconic scenery with a small group or family. The tour’s value is in the extensive itinerary and the chance to see wildlife and stunning coastlines in one trip.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for an all-encompassing scenic tour of the coast with wildlife and rainforest included.

7. Mornington Peninsula Small Group Thermal Springs w/ Lunch & Wine

Number 7 combines relaxation and gourmet food in a small-group tour to Mornington’s hot springs. After a hot springs soak at Peninsula Hot Springs, enjoy a lunch of local meats, cheeses, and wine. The tour includes a scenic visit to Arthurs Seat with panoramic views. Guests love how intimate the experience feels due to the small group size and the quality of the hot springs and lunch. It’s ideal for those seeking a relaxing day in nature combined with good food and a touch of scenic sightseeing.

Bottom Line: A peaceful, well-organized choice for relaxation and gourmet eating in a scenic setting.

8. Melbourne: Peninsula Hot Springs with Lunch and Wine

Number 8 offers a 6-8 hour tour to the Peninsula Hot Springs, including thermal bathing, a gourmet lunch with local wines, and panoramic Arthur’s Seat views. The hot springs feature over 75 pools, all naturally heated, making it a favorite for those who want to unwind. Guests highlight the luxury of the bath experience and the quality of the lunch at Green Olive Estate. The tour is suited for travelers wanting a mid-length, relaxing day with optional wine tasting. The combination of wellness and gourmet food makes this a popular choice.

Bottom Line: Best for anyone looking to combine relaxation, scenic views, and fine local wine in one day.

9. From Melbourne: Reverse Great Ocean Road Day Trip with Lunch

Number 9 offers a reverse route along the iconic Great Ocean Road, avoiding the crowds and visiting the 12 Apostles and Shipwreck Coast. This 13-hour trip includes lunch and stops in Apollo Bay and rainforest walks in the Otways. Guests enjoy the less crowded experience and the chance to spot native wildlife. The long drive is well-paced with scenic stops, making it suitable for travelers eager to see famous sights comfortably.

Bottom Line: An excellent option for travelers wanting a quieter, more relaxed coastal experience with a full itinerary.

10. Melbourne: Spirit Of Melbourne Yarra River Lunch Cruise

Number 10 is a 2-hour lunch cruise that offers a unique way to enjoy Melbourne’s skyline while dining. The 3-course meal features local ingredients, and the boat glides past landmarks along the Yarra River. Passengers love the beautiful views, attentive staff, and the relaxing atmosphere. It’s ideal for those who prefer a leisurely midday meal combined with sightseeing from the water, perfect for couples or small groups wanting a different perspective of the city.

Bottom Line: Perfect for a relaxing, scenic lunch with views of Melbourne’s skyline and riverfront.

11. Shore Excursion Melbourne, Sights, Kangaroos, Koalas Lunch & Wine

Number 11 is designed for cruise travelers wanting an all-in-one experience ashore. It includes animal encounters at Moonlit Sanctuary, lunch with wine at Merricks General Store, and views of Port Phillip Bay and Arthur’s Seat. The tour’s round-trip transportation makes it accessible for cruise schedules. Reviewers appreciate the animal interactions and the delicious lunch. It’s perfect if you want a combination of wildlife, scenic views, and local food, all tailored for a half-day adventure.

Bottom Line: Best suited for cruise passengers seeking an easy, well-rounded day with wildlife and scenic highlights.

12. Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise

A shorter but equally charming option, the Spirit of Melbourne Lunch Cruise combines a gourmet 3-course meal with a scenic cruise along the Yarra River. Reviewers mention the spectacular views and attentive service making it a relaxing way to enjoy Melbourne from the water. It’s ideal for those wanting a refined lunch experience with a bit of sightseeing embedded.

Bottom Line: A refined, shorter cruise perfect for a midday treat or special occasion.

13. Melbourne: Private Yarra Valley Winery Lunch by Helicopter

Number 13 offers a luxurious helicopter ride over Melbourne and the Yarra Valley, culminating in a private lunch at Balgownie Estate. The ride offers spectacular aerial views, and the pairing of award-winning wines with gourmet food creates a memorable experience. This trip is highly exclusive, suited for special celebrations or travelers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines scenic flight and fine dining.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking luxury, adventure, and exclusivity in their wine and food experience.

14. Helicopter Winery Lunch to Hubert Estate in Yarra Valley

Number 14 tops the list for luxury helicopter winery experiences. This all-inclusive package includes a scenic helicopter flight to Hubert Estate, where you sample top cold-climate wines inside an architectural masterpiece. The scenic flight paired with world-class wine and food makes it the ultimate indulgence. It’s best suited for those celebrating something special and wanting a truly exclusive experience.

Bottom Line: The pinnacle of luxury wine tours, perfect for special occasions or travelers wanting the very best.

How to Choose the Right Lunch Experience

When deciding among these options, think about your budget, time, and interests. For a scenic coastal adventure, the Great Ocean Road offers iconic views. Wine enthusiasts should consider the Yarra Valley or private helicopter tours for a more personalized experience. If relaxation is your goal, the Peninsula Hot Springs offers natural baths and gourmet food. For those seeking a unique city experience, the Yarra River lunch cruise combines sightseeing with fine dining afloat.

Booking early is advisable, especially for private or luxury tours, which tend to fill quickly during peak seasons. Check the duration and physical activity level—some tours involve walking or outdoor activity, while others focus on comfort and relaxation. Thoughtful planning ensures you’ll pick an experience that matches your pace and interests.

Final Thoughts

Melbourne’s lunch experiences are as diverse as the city itself, offering scenic drives, world-class wineries, relaxing hot springs, and scenic cruises. If you love wine, the Yarra Valley tours deliver exceptional tastings and hearty meals, while adventure seekers might prefer the Great Ocean Road or helicopter experiences for their breathtaking views. For those wanting to unwind, the Peninsula Hot Springs provides natural relaxation paired with excellent local food.

No matter which tour you choose, booking early guarantees your spot in these memorable settings. With so many options catering to different interests, you’re sure to find the perfect Melbourne lunch experience that will stay with you long after the meal is finished.