By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
The diverse dining options around the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges offer something for every palate and preference. As demand grows for quality vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free food, more and more local cafes and restaurants are offering menus catering to every taste. Take a look at some of the best the area has to offer.
Piggery Cafe Sherbrooke
The recently opened cafe bakery is the brainchild of Vue de Monde chef Shannon Bennett, and offers an idyllic atmosphere as well as outstanding food. With a six-acre vegetable garden on site, almost all of the produce used in the cafe is grown on the property and other fresh food such as pork and dairy is sourced from local farms. Head horticulturalist Robert Proudlock employs biodynamic practices to cultivate produce in the rich volcanic soil of the Sherbrooke forest. The menu gives diners the opportunity to request dairy free, gluten free, vegetarian or vegan options and fresh gourmet salads round out a varied selection. Piggery Cafe is located at 1 Sherbrooke Road, Sherbrooke. Phone 9021 2100.
Earthly Pleasures Cafe, Belgrave
An ethically focused cafe, Earthly Pleasures finds its home in a stunning 1930s stone building and has built a reputation on cooking everything from scratch. Free range eggs and meat as well as organic dairy make the cafe a suitable option for those conscious of the origins of their food and a variety of vegan options cater to all tastes. Locals love the fresh breakfast options and outstanding fair trade coffee. Earthly Pleasures is located at 1627 Burwood Highway, Belgrave. Phone 9752 6744.
Wild Thyme Cafe, Warburton
A Warburton treasure, the Wild Thyme uses the best locally grown produce to create an organic-infused and culturally diverse menu. A cafe that prides itself on the values of inspired food and community-mindedness, the Wild Thyme also hosts a variety of gigs and screenings, making it a hub of culture and community. A wide selection of gluten-free main meals, organic breakfast foods, gourmet juice and fresh local produce have visitors raving and locals coming back for more. The Wild Thyme Cafe is located at 3391 Warburton Highway, Warbuton. Phone 5966 5050.
SkyHigh Restaurant, Mount Dandenong
Visitors may come to SkyHigh for its magnificent views and scenic location but they stay for its outstanding food, including a wide range of vegetarian and gluten-free meals. Skyhigh’s lunch menu includes wild mushroom arancini balls and dinner offers such delights as fried vegetarian wontons, roasted tomato and goat’s cheese tart and vegetarian risotto. A perfect spot to soak up the beauty of the Dandenong Ranges and enjoy a view stretching all the way to Melbourne, SkyHigh scores highly in both location and menu. SkyHigh is located at 26 Observatory Road, Mount Dandenong. Phone 9751 0433.
Vine’s Restaurant, Coldstream
Boasting a separate vegetarian lunch menu and several vegetarian and gluten-free options at dinner, Vine’s is dedicated to meeting the needs of every diner. Executive chef Stuart Harvey enjoys creating new recipes from old and the result is a stunning menu, attracting visitors from far and wide. Offering 180-degree views of the Yarra Valley, Vine’s has got your dining experience covered from local wine to fresh food and stunning views. Vine’s is located at 16 Ingram Road, Coldstream. Phone 9739 0222.
Mocha and Lime Cafe, Healesville
Nestled in Healesville’s Green Street, Mocha and Lime offers a variety of vegan and gluten-free delights in a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Drinks and cakes have a reputation for excellence and the cafe regularly hosts live music acts. It’s vegan desserts and breakfasts are a highlight and coffee has become locally renowned. Mocha and Lime is located at 11 Green Street, Healesville. Phone 5962 2288.
