In the heart of the Murray Riverina food bowl, Echuca is a thriving food and wine district. This picturesque town on the Murray River has everything from the freshest, locally farmed produce to award winning restaurants, cafes, bars and wineries. There is something for everyone in Echuca with two renowned wine regions, historic pubs, artisan producers, and fine dining on the river.
Eating in Echuca
Echuca is a great place to visit for food and restaurants, having become a culinary hotspot over the last decade. Known for its rich cultural heritage, set in the heart of the Riverina Food Bowl, Echuca-Moama has long been abundant with citrus and stone fruits, olives, figs, grapes, lamb, beef, chicken, wheat and rice. In recent times the food scene has seen an exciting rejuvenation with the vibrant food scene showcasing these local culinary delights. Echuca-Moama now boasts a growing number of innovative artisan producers and restaurants, cafes, casual pubs, wineries and waterfront dining where you will find fresh local ingredients.
Embark on a gastronomic journey as you savour the local flavours of this magnificent region with its reputation for magnificent wineries, breweries and gourmet food. Visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the Echuca region with winery tours, drop into one of the historic pubs steeped in history, or savour the delicious range of chocolates at the Chocolate Company. For a romantic evening, you can even enjoy fine dining floating on the magnificent Murray River.
Just a 3 hour drive north of Melbourne, Echuca boasts the best of the Riverina region where food and wine experiences await.
14 Best Restaurants and Pubs in Echuca
With a focus on diverse offerings, food lovers will be well served in the Echuca-Moama area. Set on the banks of the beautiful Murray River, in the heart of the Riverina Food Bowl, Echuca has experienced a bit of a food frenzy over recent years with more cafes, local produce and quality restaurants becoming established. Two wine regions, award winning restaurants, casual dining options and waterfront dining make Echuca a place you won’t want to miss.
The Royal
Steeped in history at more than 125 years old, The Royal is known for its homely environment and award-winning food. Situated on Echuca’s main shopping strip, The Royal’s historical building is like stepping back in time. With pub fare including old favourites like chicken parma or local steak, The Royal also boasts an extensive wine list with local suppliers as well as international pickings.
The Social Wine Bar
Nestled on the Campaspe River, The Social Wine Bar is a mix of old world charm and modern style with a relaxing atmosphere. The bar, which opened in 2021, the building originally built in 1871 was a wood shop, and now showcases regionally sourced wine and produce. In a short period of time, it has become one of the iconic hospitality venues of the Echuca region, with friendly service and a casual atmosphere.
Image credit: The Social Wine Bar
The Bridge Hotel
Originally built in 1859, The Bridge Hotel is an iconic Australian country hotel which was lovingly restored in 2019 to bring it back to its former glory. It boasts a fabulous menu with a modern twist with an American barbecue smoker infusing meats with hot smoke from an infusion of hot smoke from hickory and maple, kitchen steaks, burgers, fish and chips. It even has its own cafe and ice creamery.
St Annes Winery
Located in the heart of Echuca, St Annes Winery can be found in the old Echuca Carriageworks Shed with entrances from High Street and Murray Esplanade. Known for its wide range of award-winning wines, you can sit by the fireplace in winter or in air conditioned comfort during the warmer months. Offering a glimpse of yesteryear, St Annes Winery has a unique cellar door and the carriage builders workshop which holds large heritage barrels with 3,000 litres of old port. The iconic winery produces crisp whites like pinot gris and chardonnay, bold merlots and shiras, and even moscato for the sweet tooth.
Morrison’s Winery and Restaurant
On the banks of the Murray River, set on 15 sprawling azores of vines, Morrison’s Winery and Restaurant is dedicated to fine local produce and wines. The stunning estate is the perfect place for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the serenity of the Murray River views while sampling local wines and a balance of traditional and modern cookery. Morrison’s adapts to the seasons, using them to guide the menu and match with their plethora of award-winning wines. The large grassed area and playground by the water are perfect for families and the restaurant boasts a river view from every seat.
Cape Horn Vineyard and Riverside Bar
Nestled in a secluded oasis nestled between the Goulburn and Murray Rivers, Cape Horn Vineyard and Riverside Bay offers stunning views across the water and vineyards. The vineyard was first planted in the 1800s and served the thriving river boat trade. The vineyard and winery resulted as a consequence, today offering a marvelous blend of old world charm and modern amenities. Enjoy the comfort of the glass enclosed cellar door with its wide variety of white and red wines, and a cellar door opens to the fully covered riverside timber deck. The outdoor area is perfect for family and friend gatherings.
American Hotel Echuca
As Echuca’s oldest pub, the American Hotel Echuca was established in 1865 and is set just 200 metres front the Murray River. Boasting a rooftop bar, players’ lounge, lounge bars, a food truck and more, this is the ideal place to stop in and enjoy some local cuisine. The hotel has won awards for design, construction and service and boats over 20 draughty beers and ciders on tap and one of the largest whisky collections in the region.
Image credit: The American
The Mill
In the home of the five-storey original Echuca flour mill constructed in 1881, The Millis flooded with classic atmosphere from its glory days. These days The Mill is known as the ultimate home-grown destination to eat, relax and unwind with its rustic charm. The restaurant and wine bar are set in the building’s classic red brick and timber work preserved from yesteryear. Talented chefs dish up gastronomic delights with an ever changing seasonal menu from global street food to classic fine dining and dessert options. Wines, beers and delicious cocktails team up perfectly with the cuisine at The Mill.
Port 53 Restaurant
This seafood bar and grill boasts French and Creole influences with a philosophy to use only the best local produce. Port 53 Restaurant has a unique, industrial chic atmosphere in an old building with vintage redgum burls embedded in the polished concrete flooring. The chefs focus on creating mouthwatering seafood and foodie favourites with a focus on sustainability and highlighting the Echuca produce. The hand-picked wine collection has been chosen to complement the French and Creole inspired cuisine.
The Wren Courtyard Cafe
Specialising in all day breakfasts, pancakes and lunchtime fare, The Wren Courtyard Cafe is located adjacent to the historic Port of Echuca. It offers a carefully crafted dining experience with food and drinks from locally sourced suppliers. It has a beautiful atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining areas.
PS Emmylou Dining Cruise
The 2.5 hour adult only dinner cruise aboard the PS Emmylou is the best way to dine in style along the picturesque Murray River. Departing from Echuca, aboard the historic paddle steamer you will enjoy watching the sun setting though the majestic gums that line the banks of the river. Enjoy a delectable three course dinner crafted from local ingredients while sipping on a glass of local wine or champagne.
Jonny & Lyle
Johnny & Lyle stands out as a premier food destination for cafe lovers wanting mouth watering treats and an excellent coffee. Located in the heart of Echuca, the cafe offers all day breakfast and lunch. With a reputation for fabulous food and warm service, it has become a popular destination for visitors and locals alike. Spacious indoor and outdoor dining areas include a pet-friendly courtyard.
Sunago
Located in the heart of Echuca, Sunago is a Greek-inspired restaurant that is known for its delectable food and atmosphere. The menu ranges from contemporary Greek cuisine to imaginative dishes created by chefs with a classic mediterranean flavour. Enjoy the relaxed dining experience at Sunago while savouring tender slow-cooked lamb, salty saganaki, fresh seafood and char-grilled octopus.
The Black Pudding
Experience high-quality food using local ingredients at this quaint and intimate cafe, The Black Pudding. A popular spot for locals and visitors, it is known for its delicious breakfast and coffee. A delightful menu lets you build your own breakfasts and even has baked eggs and of course its famous black pudding. The cafe has an enclosed courtyard with a charming view across the Campaspe River.
Known for its community lifestyle, natural attractions and incredible dining experiences, Echuca is not only a wonderful place to visit but a perfect place to build a life that you deserve. For visitors and those lucky enough to live there, Echuca has a plethora of food choices to satisfy every taste and sensibility. Immerse yourself in the rich food scene of Echuca-Moama in the heart of the lush Murray-Riveriena food bowl. From fine dining on the Murray River, to award-winning wineries, local cafes and classic pub fare, it is no wonder it has become a food destination across the nation.
Enjoy a range of events and festivals during the year, as well as food and wine trails whether you are living in or visiting. Those lucky enough to live in Echuca experience the best of both worlds, with its rich agricultural heritage and paddlesteamer history, and affordable real estate. For those visitors who are drawn to the Echuca lifestyle, buying in the area is easier than ever with a plethora of real estate offerings at Yallarah. Treat yourself to a serene lifestyle, incredible dining options and affordable living at Yallarah, a masterplanned community with land for sale and house and land packages.