Foodies Guide to the Granite Belt

Love exploring regions to discover the hidden foodie gems?

Southern Downs Food Map

The Granite Belt is also home to loads of artisan producers. Producing products like cheese, craft beers, ciders, olives, oils and vinegar’s, jams and preserves. The Granite Belt is well known for having some of the largest vegetable farms in south east Qld. Stock up on these seasonal fruit and vegetables from roadside stalls on your next visit, or visit one of the many restaurants in the area that use local seasonal produce.

Local Restaurants and Cafes.

When visiting Stanthorpe, you start to wonder where can we eat?

With its diverse range of food outlets, you will discover some hidden gems. Whether you are looking for a quiet spot to have a coffee or place to have lunch with the family, or dinner with friends, there are a number of places you can try.

Want to experience some good old fashion hospitality then head to Jamworks. They are open Friday to Tuesday. While you are there you need to try one of their Grazing Platters with a glass or two of local wine or cider. Then afterwards you should go for the Chocolate Brownie. OMG!! It is so yummy. They have a dog friendly area if you are travelling with your four-legged friend.

If you are wanting to dine out in the evenings, there are a few places that you certainly need to experience. One being the Barrelroom @ Ballandean Estate. Matt & Bobbie have recently returned to the restaurant and boy are they serving up some fantastic food. One thing you should try while you are there is definitely their Pan-fried Barra with prawn and pea risotto.

Another place well worth a visit is Varias @ QCWT. This is a training facility for local school kids. They do an awesome job under the guidance of the head chef. My suggestion to try would be their signature dish “The Medley of Mains” YUM YUM!!! And wash it down with a glass or two of their wine.

There is a newcomer on the block. Essen Restaurant located in the old McGregor Tce food Project building; they sure have some big shoes to fill. But by all reports they are not going to disappoint. They have only been for a short time and some of the comments have been fantastic. My suggestion for you to try is their 300g Scotch Fillet.

Local Products

Grab the Granite Belt Visitor Guide and explore the many foodie trail suppliers in our region.