12 July 2024
6 mins Read
The area might be known for its wineries and cellar doors, but the Clare Valley restaurant scene is not to be underestimated. With plenty of dining options, from multi-course degustations to casual woodfired pizzas, you’ll be spoiled for choice. We’ve rounded up our favourite Clare Valley restaurants for you to enjoy on your trip to this charming and historic wine region.
If farm-to-table dining is your thing, look no further than the lovely restaurant at the acclaimed winery Skillogalee. The refined menu celebrates local Clare Valley and South Australian produce, including ingredients from local suppliers as well as the restaurant’s kitchen garden.
With dishes such as chicken-liver parfait with pickled cherries, hand-rolled gnocchi with zucchini, pistachio and mint and a delectable 12-hour lamb shoulder, you’ll get a taste of Clare Valley with every mouthful.
Address: 23 Trevarrick Rd, Sevenhill
Delicious Italian food in the heart of Clare? Don’t mind if we do. Ragu and Co is a warm and authentic restaurant serving saucy pastas, fresh pizzas and traditional Italian dishes that’ll transport you straight to the med.
Our pick? The crispy skin barramundi with tomatoes, capers and olives – perfection.
Address: 308 Main North Road, Clare
Known as one of the best restaurants in Clare Valley, Slate serves modern Australian dishes designed to showcase the beautiful wine produced at Pikes vineyards.
The seasonal menu boasts a fusion of Japanese, Middle Eastern, Italian and French flavours, offering guests a surprising culinary experience that delights the palate and pairs perfectly with their delicious drops!
Address: 233 Polish Hill Road, Sevenhill
This understated gem in Watervale might not have the crisp tablecloths and abundant cutlery of a fine-dining restaurant, but when it comes to excellent food, it sure delivers.
The hotel team prides themselves on their commitment to providing an ‘ethical epicurean’ experience, offering a range of delicious, seasonal and local dishes that cater to all dietaries.
Address: 37 Main North Road, Watervale
If you’re after a relaxed restaurant in Clare Valley serving delicious cocktails and woodfired pizzas, look no further than Seed. This casual spot has a fun rooftop bar where you can enjoy a cold drink and a slice of pizza, as well as a bistro menu for more elevated dining. Don’t miss the fab deli full of gourmet goodies including specialty cheeses and fresh cuts of meat.
Address: 268 Main North Road, Clare
Native ingredients shine on the menu at Bush Devine Winery, the restaurant at Paulett Wines in Polish Hill. Expect to see lemon myrtle, saltbush, bunya nuts and finger limes enriching the dishes with a distinctly Australian twist and showcasing the outstanding flavours this area has to offer.
If you’re opting for the five-course set menu (you should!), give yourself plenty of time to enjoy this gastronomic experience with matching wines – you won’t be disappointed.
Address: 752 Jolly Way, Polish Hill River
Mr. Mick is one of the most popular Clare Valley restaurants, and for good reason.
The historic building oozes character, while the relaxed menu features fan favourites such as cheesy arancini, squid with sweet chilli jam, and an indulgent twice-cooked pork belly you’ll be thinking about for days. They also serve a range of yummy pizzas on Sundays.
Address: 7 Dominic Street, Clare
The charming town of Mintaro is home to Reilly’s Restaurant, where the tastes of the region are explored in their seasonal menu.
Whether you opt to order à la carte or fully indulge in the five-course ‘Long Lunch’ with matching wines, you’ll enjoy gourmet classics guaranteed to delight. Prefer a more relaxed bite? Try Reilly’s cellar door, where you can order grazing platters alongside your wine tasting.
Address: Corner Leasingham Road & Hill St, Mintaro
The sleek O’Leary Walker is one of the most contemporary Clare Valley restaurants, offering a chic menu designed to share. The tightly edited selection is heavy on the small plates, so you can taste a variety of flavours from the area.
We’re ordering the pork and lemongrass wontons, the sticky Thai peanut cauliflower, and the Shiraz-glazed beef rib with celeriac and garlic – foodie heaven. Got dietaries? Stress not. There are lots of options for our GF, DF and vegan friends, too.
Address: 7093 Horrocks Highway, Leasingham
A new venture from the former head chef of Clare Valley institution Indii of Clare, Antidote is bringing Indian street food to the table at this buzzy new spot.
Originally a pop-up kitchen servicing local wineries on weekends, Antidote found their permanent home in the old Chaff Mill in Clare just a few months ago, and have been delivering mouth-watering meals every day since.
Address: 308b Main North Road, Clare
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