Swan Valley, just a short drive from Perth, is renowned for its wineries, but it's culinary scene is equally impressive. From farm-to-table restaurants to charming cafés, the region offers a range of dining experiences that highlight local ingredients, seasonal produce, and, of course, great wine pairings. Whether you’re a passionate foodie or simply looking for a great meal, Swan Valley has something for every palate. Here's your guide to the best restaurants and cafes in Swan Valley.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
1. Wild Swan at Mandoon Estate
For an upscale dining experience, Wild Swan at Mandoon Estate is a must-visit. This award-winning restaurant offers a modern take on Australian cuisine, with a focus on seasonal produce sourced locally. The dishes are designed to pair perfectly with Mandoon Estate’s wines, offering a true farm-to-table experience.
The menu is sophisticated yet approachable, featuring dishes like seared scallops, slow-cooked lamb, and native bush herbs. The restaurant’s elegant setting, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the vineyards, adds to the ambiance, making it ideal for a special occasion.
Signature Dishes: Seared scallops with lemon myrtle, slow-cooked lamb shoulder, Mandoon Estate wines.
Tip: Book a table on the outdoor terrace for the best views of the vineyard and Swan River while you dine.
2. The Vineyard Kitchen
Located at Upper Reach Winery, The Vineyard Kitchen is the perfect spot for a relaxed yet refined lunch. The menu focuses on simple, fresh flavours using locally sourced ingredients to create delicious meals that showcase the best of Western Australian produce. The al fresco dining area offers stunning views of the vineyard, making it an ideal place to enjoy a leisurely lunch or weekend brunch.
Their menu is seasonal and changes regularly, but you can expect dishes like pan-seared fish, duck leg confit, and freshly made pasta. The pairing of Upper Reach’s award-winning wines with each dish adds to the overall experience.
Signature Dishes: Confit duck leg, pan-seared fish, freshly made pasta.
Tip: Visit during the weekend for their popular brunch menu, and don’t miss the wine tasting at the cellar door before or after your meal.
3. Taylors Art and Coffee House
For a more laid-back dining experience, Taylors Art and Coffee House offers a charming combination of café dining and local art. Set in a rustic, converted barn, this café serves up wholesome breakfasts, lunches, and artisan coffee, with many of the ingredients sourced from local farms. The food is fresh and flavorful, with dishes like smashed avocado on toast, gourmet sandwiches, and homemade cakes.
Taylors is also a gallery, showcasing works from local artists, which creates a cosy and creative atmosphere. After your meal, browse the artworks on display or enjoy the beautiful outdoor garden seating.
Signature Dishes: Smashed avocado with dukkah, beef brisket sandwich, homemade carrot cake.
Tip: Make time for a coffee and cake break in the garden if you're visiting for lunch. It’s a perfect spot to relax and soak in the scenery.
4. The Colony @ Oakover Grounds
For a fun and family-friendly dining experience, The Colony @ Oakover Grounds offers casual dining in a picturesque setting. The restaurant serves up classic Australian fare with a twist, including wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, and fresh salads. With a sprawling lawn and a lake where you can enjoy paddle boating, Oakover Grounds is a great spot to spend the day with family or friends.
In addition to its relaxed dining options, Oakover also has an on-site coffee roastery, where you can sample freshly brewed coffee, and a craft beer and wine tasting bar for those looking to enjoy local beverages.
Signature Dishes: Wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, crispy calamari.
Tip: Take advantage of the outdoor activities like paddle boating or enjoy a game of giant Jenga on the lawn while waiting for your food.
5. Caversham House
If you’re looking for a fine dining experience with a touch of romance, Caversham House is one of the most beautiful spots in the Swan Valley. Set in a stunning heritage-listed venue with lush gardens and views of the Swan River, Caversham House offers an elegant dining experience.
The menu features modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Dishes are artfully plated, and each course is designed to be paired with local wines. It’s a great spot for a romantic dinner, special celebration, or high tea.
Signature Dishes: Herb-crusted lamb rack, fresh seafood platter, decadent desserts.
Tip: Try their high tea for a truly indulgent experience, served in the garden with freshly baked scones, cakes, and sandwiches.
6. Fillaudeau’s Café Restaurant at Pinelli Estate
Tucked within the scenic Pinelli Estate Winery, Fillaudeau’s Café Restaurant offers a French-inspired menu with a contemporary twist. This family-run restaurant combines French techniques with fresh, local ingredients to create flavorful dishes like duck a l'orange, steak frites, and grilled seafood.
The relaxed, countryside setting makes Fillaudeau’s a great choice for a leisurely lunch or dinner, where you can dine al fresco and soak in the views of the surrounding vineyards. Their Pinelli Estate wines are available to complement your meal, making it an ideal spot for a food and wine pairing experience.
Signature Dishes: Duck a l'orange, steak frites, seafood linguine.
Tip: Book a table for dinner to enjoy the serene vineyard setting at sunset, when the light creates a beautiful backdrop.
7. Swan Valley Café
For those seeking vegetarian or plant-based options, Swan Valley Café offers a creative menu filled with wholesome, vegetarian and gluten-free dishes. The café’s tranquil garden setting adds to the experience, making it a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy healthy, freshly prepared meals.
The café specialises in salads, wraps, and smoothies, with ingredients sourced from local farms. The herb garden on-site adds extra flavour to many of the dishes, and the relaxed, casual vibe makes it a favourite for both locals and visitors.
Signature Dishes: Buddha bowls, vegetarian burgers, gluten-free cakes.
Tip: The café also hosts gardening workshops and yoga sessions, so check their schedule if you want to combine a meal with a wellness activity.
8. The House of Honey & The Sticky Spoon Café
For something sweet, head to The House of Honey & The Sticky Spoon Café, a family-run café specialising in honey-based products. The café offers a variety of honey-infused treats, including honey cakes, scones, and honey ice cream, all made from raw honey produced on-site. Their honey tastings are a great way to sample different varieties, and you can also learn about the honey-making process from the resident beekeepers.
The Sticky Spoon Café is perfect for a sweet snack, a cup of tea, or a light lunch. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great stop for families and those with a sweet tooth.
Signature Dishes: Honey scones, honey ice cream, honey cakes.
Tip: Don’t leave without trying their honey mead—an ancient honey wine that’s both refreshing and unique.
9. Edgecombe Brothers Winery and Café
Known for its rustic charm and warm hospitality, Edgecombe Brothers Winery and Café offers a relaxed, family-friendly dining experience. The café serves a range of dishes made with fresh produce from their own garden, and the menu features classic fare like beef and red wine pies, gourmet sandwiches, and fresh salads.
Their alfresco dining area overlooks the vineyard, creating a laid-back atmosphere perfect for long lunches and casual gatherings. The on-site cellar door also offers wine tastings, allowing visitors to sample their range of Swan Valley wines.
Signature Dishes: Beef and red wine pie, homemade quiches, lamb shank.
Tip: Don’t miss their asparagus festival if you’re visiting during the spring season, as the farm-grown asparagus dishes are a highlight.
10. Margaret River Chocolate Company – Swan Valley
A visit to Swan Valley wouldn’t be complete without stopping by the Margaret River Chocolate Company. This chocolate factory and café is a paradise for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering free chocolate tastings, handmade chocolates, and decadent desserts. The café serves up everything from chocolate brownies and cheesecakes to hot chocolate and milkshakes.
The large outdoor seating area is perfect for families, and kids will love watching the chocolate-making process through the factory’s viewing windows.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
Signature Dishes: Chocolate fondue, brownies, ice cream.
Tip: Take home a selection of their handcrafted chocolates as a sweet souvenir of your visit.
Final Thoughts
Swan Valley is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences that highlight the region’s fresh produce and local flavours. Whether you're enjoying a fine dining experience at Wild Swan, indulging in honey treats at The House of Honey, or savouring a relaxed meal at Edgecombe Brothers, the Swan Valley culinary scene has something for every foodie. Pair these delicious meals with local wines and enjoy the beautiful, scenic setting that makes Swan Valley such a special destination.