victoria - 101 Must Do's - travel

145 Marcus Curypko

Aug 7th, 2008 at 8:09 am

Pettavel Winery is surely Geelong’s best restaurant, and thoroughly deserves to be recognised as one of Victoria’s favourite tourism experiences.
The food is always exceptional, with every dish memorable for both taste and presentation. The creativity of the chefs is also evidenced by the often-unique combinations of flavours and ingredients; in my opinion this uniqueness is Pettavel’s signature and ensures it is a cut above all other restaurants in the region.
True to its status as an elite restaurant, the wine list at Pettavel is also memorable with selections available to match any dish, mood, or occasion. Pettavel’s own range, in particular, is of excellent quality and very competitively priced.
Outstanding service is expected of fine restaurants such as Pettavel, and the staff meet and exceed these expectations every time. The staff members are friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable, and work hard to ensure your dining experience is enjoyable.
It was our high opinion of Pettavel Winery than enticed us to select it as the venue for our wedding reception in 2006. The night was unforgettable not just for us, but also our guests, and we have full intentions of dining at Pettavel on special occasions in future.

144 Hannah

Aug 4th, 2008 at 12:31 am

Pettavel is my favourite place to be - the cooking classes are fantastic (can’t wait for the thai class!!) and I’m loving the new cellar door menu for when I don’t have the time to enjoy the 8 or 5 course degustation options… and yummy petit fours!!

143 Matt W

Jul 21st, 2008 at 12:59 pm

Great food, great wine with a great view….no better place to spend an afternoon!
The staff are friendly and service is top notch. Variety of food is exceptional, and presentation is simple, yet very effective.

142 Sean

Jul 21st, 2008 at 2:09 am

When ever I make it home to Australia I make it a point to get to Pettavel. The food is just amazing!!

141 chris

Jul 17th, 2008 at 9:45 pm

i found he experience of dining at petavel winery an rewarding experience and looking forward to repeating the experience again soon

140 c johnson

Jul 10th, 2008 at 3:29 pm

simply the best winery restaurant in Victoria

139 Sue Brunton

Jul 8th, 2008 at 12:18 pm

What can I say that hasn’t already been said!!
The staff, food, wine, scenery and atmosphere is top class.
My husband and I try to make this our annual anniversary restaurant to dine at.
We live at Waurn Ponds so regard ourselves very lucky to have such a wonderful five star venue at our doorstep. Their set menu is always delicious and creative. The mood the staff create is always so welcoming and can I say romantic. We have not gone to Pettavel with other people because my husband and I treasure this special dining experience as our own.

138 Elizabeth Chandler

Jul 6th, 2008 at 2:29 pm

Every year, for my birthday, we take the long drive over to Warun Ponds (from Mentone!) for their 5 course lunch. From the moment you call to book a table, they do everything superbly! A staff member opens the door for you, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, the views are lovely and the food is absolutely gorgeous. A lot of Melbourne restaurants could learn from their wonderful service - from the butter on the table and being offered bread to “mop up the juices” after every course, to being able to purchase half-glasses of wine (not just their own range) so you can still taste a variety and drive home. I recommend lunch at Pettavel to all my friends - especially for a birthday treat!

137 Liz and Peter Maginness

Jul 4th, 2008 at 12:50 pm

The light,space,waiting staff and most of all the beautiful food makes dining at Pettavel a lovely day out.

136 Lyn Fry

Jul 3rd, 2008 at 4:53 pm

Each time I dine at Pettavel, I know the food and the service will be extra special. I have not had any cause to complain about anything on my previous visits.

135 Lynn

Jul 3rd, 2008 at 1:58 pm

Its not just dining, it is an experience over several hours. I have tried many foods that I thought I may not like, but have yet to be disappointed. Flavours and combinations are exceptional. The staff and service is great - you always feel relaxed and comfortable. The wines are devine and well priced.

134 Rachelle Gibson

Jul 2nd, 2008 at 8:30 pm

The food and service standards are impeccable. Easily the best restaurant in Geelong

133 Jacqui Bennett

Jul 2nd, 2008 at 8:28 pm

We eat at Pettavel several times a year. It is just the best setting and meal. And as for the wines… We’ve also been to a number of their cooking classes - fun!

132 Morris Wilson

Jul 2nd, 2008 at 7:30 pm

The food is absolutely delicious and the service could not be faulted. Wonderful dining while gazing at a lovely view. We keep returning and are never disappointed.

131 Carolyn Stannard

Jul 1st, 2008 at 6:40 pm

The first time we visted the winery our taste buds were teased by the exceptional food in the cafe, this prompted a return visit to indulge in the degustation menu one glorious sunny winters’ day last year. Again the food was exceptional, matched with excellent service from the staff on site. Oh & did I mention the wine…….delicious!!!

130 Julie Maya

Jul 1st, 2008 at 4:01 pm

I had the great pleasure in attending a function at Pettavel and it was a wonderful experience, the food, wine and staff were Exquisite. The atmosphere is great, and we will be back again and again and again

129 Peter Coffey

Jul 1st, 2008 at 12:57 pm

This has to be one of the best dining experiences in Victoria! It all begins with the greeting which is friendly and courteous. The menu is always so varied it is difficult to choose and the wine list is extensive and reasonably priced. The highlight, along with the food, is the impeccable service. The staff can easily explain the menu and recommend wines to match the food. As a lover of cheese it is wonderful to find a restaurant which has such a diverse and fresh range. Attention from the staff is diligent without being in the least fawning. The view whilst you are dining is peaceful and relaxing.
If I am lucky I eat at Pettavel three or four times a year - I wish it were much more often.

128 John & Maree Millard

Jun 30th, 2008 at 9:53 pm

We have been meeting at Pettavell for the last 4 years with our family.(inlaws, outlaws). The food, wine and service is excellent and we feel so welcome. We talk about the food for the next 12 months and can’t wait to see what gastronomic
experience we will be having this year. Great place, great atmosphere, great wine and we are good company. Highly Recommended!

127 P Miller

Jun 30th, 2008 at 9:09 pm

i was first taken to Pettavel for a Birthday treat and now I insist we go for every special occasion!
We are always impressed with the service provided by the staff and their knowledge of wine. Oh, and of course the food….

126 Catherine

Jun 30th, 2008 at 10:48 am

My husband and I had a beautiful wedding reception at Pettavel. Wonderful food and wine but more importantly fabulous staff. We have been back each year to celebrate our anniversary and continue to be impressed with the superb food and wine and attentive and thoughtful staff.

125 Karla Lupton

Jun 30th, 2008 at 10:46 am

I have been to Pettavel Winery on a number of occasions and I will continue to go back because it is a complete dining experience. The restaurant uses local produce to create diverse, interesting and extremely tasty cuisine. The waiters are always friendly and helpful by explaining each dish and wine to you. The majestic views over the vineyard are also breathtaking which adds to the experience. This restaurant is definitely one of Geelong’s gems. I would recommend it to anyone. This is why i have voted it five stars.

124 Greg Edge

Jun 30th, 2008 at 9:08 am

There’s no better match of wine with food than Pettavel

123 Steve

Jun 30th, 2008 at 8:32 am

Exceptional food and wine complimented by attentive staff and a beautiful view.

122 Jenny Kirk

Jun 30th, 2008 at 8:29 am

Great atmosphere and fantastic service

121 Patricia Zerna

Jun 30th, 2008 at 7:36 am

We had a function there and the food, wine and service was fantastic. It was a great day and we will always remember what a happy experience it was. The staff are wonderful and deserve to be successful. A top class spot in Victoria.

120 Molly

Jun 29th, 2008 at 8:25 pm

My family and I have made this place our ‘big’ celebrations place. Every time we have come for a meal the food has been excellent and the service exemplary. We love the ambiance and enjoy relaxing together as we talk or even sometimes just sit in comfortable silence looking out over the vines. The wines have complimented our food both at the restaurant and at home, [we tend to order a case to take home with us as we leave.]

119 Valerie Robley

Jun 28th, 2008 at 6:55 pm

Location - first class - just off the route to/from the Great Ocean Road
Ambience - great - rural and vineyard aspect
Service - caring/professional/attentive without intrusion
Food - first class/innovative/nice sized serves
Staff - knowledgeable on both food and wine aspects
Costs - a little higher than average but not excessive.

118 Dennis Zaetta

Jun 28th, 2008 at 6:49 pm

ZZZZZZUUUPER!!!!!

117 Lou Moretti

Jun 28th, 2008 at 6:41 pm

Provide an excellent dining environment on many levels levels:
food
wine
service
atmosphere

Every time we have been there, whether it be mid week, weekends , as a group or a couple, we have been transported into another world for a few hours.

Lou Moretti

116 S Young

Jun 28th, 2008 at 4:44 pm

Food superb, service great, good value & fantastic atmosphere.

115 Shauna Young

Jun 28th, 2008 at 4:41 pm

Food superb, service great, cost good value, therefore a wonderful way to spend a leisurely few hours - fantastic atmosphere.

114 Michelle Scheelings

Jun 28th, 2008 at 3:50 pm

The waiting staff were very attentive and as soon as we walked in were warmly greeted. We were invited to taste Pettavel wines at the bar to enable us to order appropriately for lunch and then we were seated. The food selection was really well planned to cater to anyone’s taste as we enjoyed 3 entrees and a main course. It was beautiful food. That was the set lunch menu with the option of dessert and coffee which we indulged in also. It was a great gourmet experience.

113 JackPirie

Jun 28th, 2008 at 2:58 pm

It starts with the door being opened as you walk up from the car park and, from then on, it just gets better.
We lunch there several times a year and make a point, whenever we have visitors, of taking them there on our way to the coast.
Always consistent, always delicious.
Keep it up.

112 Terry Gleeson

Jun 28th, 2008 at 2:31 pm

I have had two wonderful dining experiences at Pettavel Winery & Restaurant. From the moment we stepped out of the car, we were warmly welcomed by friendly and very experienced staff. Congratulations to the Management & Staff of Pettavel Winery for an awesome dining experience headed up by Chef Matt Dempsey. Cheers!

111 Lucy

Jun 28th, 2008 at 11:34 am

The most amazing food, wine, people, service and atmosphere.
Pettavel is a big favorite in my family, from dinners to weddings and all the fantastic extras like cooking classes, and events.
Looking forward to the events in August. YUM!

110 Peter

Jun 28th, 2008 at 11:14 am

Great wine tasting experience - don’t miss it!

109 Anna Mitchell

Jun 28th, 2008 at 8:08 am

Pettavel has the best food that I have tasted, uses fresh local ingredients, changes its menu regularly and is set amongst beautiful ever-changing vine leaves away from traffic and other distractions. The staff are knowledgable and attentive without hovering; they will never let your water run out for example. Their wine is fantastic, and they tailor their menus with perfect wine suggestions. Also, dining at Pettavel is an experience as you spend many hours leisurely grazing, drinking and chatting, as you sample some of the finest cuisine our region has to offer. The menu is always inventive; the flavours simple yet impecably balanced. Every time I’ve dined there I’ve been able to try flavours and ingredients that I haven’t tried before and foods that I ordinarily wouldn’t enjoy, such as shellfish, are so beautifully done that I have always thoroughly enjoyed every bite.

108 Olivia Tarrant-Hunt

Jun 27th, 2008 at 9:55 pm

Manicured view, imaculate wines, impecable service, art on a plate and a taste explosion! Welcome, you’ve landed the planet of Pettavel…..

107 Kevin Gleeson

Jun 27th, 2008 at 9:16 pm

Rarely do I dine outside of the city but I found Pettavel to rival any Melbourne fine dining experience. I highly recommend the innovative modern menu to diners who enjoy quality local produce - some of which is grown in their own ‘veggie garden!’ The attentive and friendly staff were extremely knowledgeable about the menu and wine list. On our most recent visit we indulged in the degustation - the best I have had. Pettavel is a must for anyone visiting the Geelong region.

106 Helen Williams

Jun 27th, 2008 at 8:40 pm

Every time I have visited the food has been fantastic. The five course lunch offers varierty -with each course being carefully presented to appeal to both the eye and the taste buds. This is the ideal place to enjoy a leisurely few hours in the company of friends, in a great setting with first class food, wine and service.

105 Charles New

Jun 27th, 2008 at 4:26 pm

We have travelled an hour there and back on three occassions and have always
been delighted with the whole dining experience. Friends who we have introduced have also become regulars. What more can one say.

104 Wayne Ford

Jun 27th, 2008 at 3:23 pm

The Best Creme Brulee I have ever had!!!!!

103 David Elliott

Jun 27th, 2008 at 2:57 pm

As an overall dining experience Pettavel is superb. The look and feel sitting in the restaurant is quiet and peaceful . The food and service is excellent, and the care taken with each dish can be seen at any time through the wonderful viewing window to the kitchen.

The best endorsement that I can give, is that I would be happy to highly recommend to all my friends and family and know that that they will be as well looked after as I have been on the 4 occasions I have dined there.

102 ROBERT G FINDLAY

Jun 27th, 2008 at 1:27 pm

PETTAVEL,A TOP WINE AND FOOD EXPERIENCE.THIS WINERY/RESTUARANT SITS ATOP A HILL OVERLOOKING A SUN DRENCHED,GREEN SLOPE OF VINES.IN THE DISTANCE THE GEELONG/COLAC HIGHWAY SNAKES ITS WAY TOWARDS THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD.OUR VISIT STARTED WITH A WINE TASTING CONDUCTED BY A FRIENDLY,KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF MEMBER.WE THEN CHOSE THE WINES TO GO WITH THE MENU,ASSISTED BY RECOMMENDATIONS LISTED BESIDE EACH COURSE.MY WIFE,A CORDON BLEAU COOK,ENTHUSED OVER THE WELL PRICED MENU.THE FRESHNESS,QUALITY OF THE LOCAL PRODUCE,PESENTATION AND FLAVOUR WERE FIRST CLASS.SERVICE QUICK AND FRIENDLY.A DAY TO REMEMBER.WELL DONE MANAGEMENT AND STAFF.R&M.FINDLAY

101 S Hill

Jun 27th, 2008 at 12:22 pm

Pettavel offers a delicious and inventive menu utilising local ingredients, coupled with beautiful wines. The staff are always thoughtful and courteous and the winery provides a lovely country vista experience. We thoroughly recommend Pettavel, which offers a chance to relax and watch the clouds roll by!

100 ROBERT G FINDLAY

Jun 27th, 2008 at 12:13 pm

A TOP FOOD AND WINE EXPERIENCE.THE WINERY/RESTUARANT SET ATOP A HILL OVERLOOKING GREEN VINEYARDS AND IN THE DISTANCE THE STEADY STREAM OF TRAFFIC ALONG THE GEELONG/COLAC HIGHWAY.WHAT A SETTING FOR A VERY MEMORABLE VISIT.THE WINE TASTING WAS GENEROUS,INFORMATIVE AND CONDUCTED BY A FRIENDLY,KNOWLEDGEABLE STAFF MEMBER.MY WIFE,A CORDON BLEAU COOK ,ENTHUSED ABOUT THE MENU CHOICES ,FRESHNESS AND QUALITYOF THE INGREDIENTS,PRESENTATION AND FLAVOURS.THE WINES CHOSEN FOR EACH COURSE ON THE MENU ENHANCED OUR ENJOYMENT OF THE VISIT.WELL DONE TO MANAGEMENT AND STAFF.R.G.FINDLAY

99 Karen Williams

Jun 27th, 2008 at 10:52 am

This is one of the best experiences you can have- it is a gastromonic delight! The food is amazing- creative and a taste sensation with amazing presentation. The service and location are 5 star as well. My husband and I go there for every special event during the year- each time is a different delight. I have tried ( and loved) new and exciting tastes. Even things I would not regularly order - I have loved. There has not been one course I didn’t enjoy. Definately a must go restaurant.

98 Spiro Tsatsalmas

Jun 27th, 2008 at 10:49 am

Always a pleasure to visit Pettavel. Over the years, the menu changes but the standard does not, always top notch.
Excellent food matched to superb wines (especially the Platina range) and staff that know what they are selling and serving- not always found in establishments portraying themselves to be at this end of the scale.
Look forward to many more visits.

97 L Miller

Jun 27th, 2008 at 10:20 am

We make sure we go there at least once a year because we have always found the food and service exceptional.

96 Mark Senjov

Jun 27th, 2008 at 10:16 am

Great view, brilliant food, magnificent service, and divine wine. My partner and I have done cooking classes there as well as had lunch a few times, and now we are having our wedding reception there on 24th of Jan 2009. This place is absolutely FAULTLESS!!!!

95 Diane Amon

Jun 27th, 2008 at 10:14 am

I am a Fortunate Foodie indeed to have Pettavel in my “backyard” .Melbourne friends are amazed at the value Pettavel offers with exciting cuisine ,ambience and very special service from a keen and youthful staff.

94 Dianne & John Cockburn

Jun 27th, 2008 at 9:47 am

Pettavel restaurant is our absolute favourite. First impression is upon arrival at the Winery/Restaurant when you walk up the stairs then into the wine tasting area, you just know this is going to be great. The service is unbelievably the best we have experienced and the food is excellent. We have dined at the restaurant at least 8 times in the past 2 years, taking different people with us to have the wonderful experience of the 5 course luncheon. We travel from Melbourne just to go to Pettavel and on special birthdays/anniversaries any excuse we will select Pettavel — Does not matter what the weather is like outside the views all around are magnificent and there is nothing better than sipping on a beautiful wine with wonderful food and great company - what more could you ask for

93 Jason McLachlan

Jun 27th, 2008 at 9:44 am

We first went to Pettavel xmas 2006, i then took my mum their for mothers day 2007 and then we had our 10th wedding anniversary their.

The degustation menu is a gr8 way to taste exotic food at decent prices. i had my very first sauv blanc (dog point from NZ) their and the wines for our anniversary, especially the southern emigre shiraz and late harvest reisling were smashing.

92 Leigh

Jun 27th, 2008 at 9:41 am

Sensational food and service. It doesn’t get much better!

91 Buster Herman

Jun 27th, 2008 at 5:38 am

The cooking classes are informative, interesting and a lot of fun. The restaurant is excellent and well priced as well as having magnificent views.

90 Kim Jennings

Jun 27th, 2008 at 2:08 am

Sensational service, exquisite food. If you’re making a trip out to the Petteval, be prepared to be dined. The quality of local products, the skills of the chefs, and the restaurant timing is supurb.
Over coffee, watching the golden light over the vines in late afternoon, talk about simply the one the finest lunches you’ve had. No wonder Pettavel has gained the coveted Hat. How lucky we are to have Petteval here in Geelong.

89 Annette Sodomaco

Jun 27th, 2008 at 1:12 am

Pettavel offers a total experience, I am always confident of excellent food, service and experience when I arrange an outing with friends and family.
Other Geelong establishments have much to learn from the attentional to detail the staff exhibit and their total professional approach to EVERYTHING.

Thank you for the numerous special lunches we have experienced.

88 Shirley Whittington

Jun 27th, 2008 at 12:25 am

Our lunch at Pettavel reminded me of our time living in Europe. The service was attentive, the food was exceptional, and all very well timed. We spent a long leisurely afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it. The only issue, given the quality of the wines, was who drives next time.

87 Peter Rodger

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:42 pm

A fine food experience served in a way that it allows you to graze through the afternoon. Excellent quality, first class service, and a true culinary delight. Magnificent views and warm and welcoming ambiance.

86 Peter

Jun 26th, 2008 at 9:51 pm

The cuisine was exquisite, the vista breathtaking and the service faultless! What more could you hope for from a local institution bringing the best of the city and the bay to provincial Victoria?

85 Janet Bishop

Jun 26th, 2008 at 8:20 pm

Dining at Pettavel was a wonderful unique experience, the food was delicious, the wines were wonderful and the service was exceptional, I would thoroughly recommend it as a place you must visit.

84 Catherine Morgan

Jun 26th, 2008 at 8:15 pm

I had my first and forever memorable visit to Pettavel on Good Friday 2008 where my partner arranged for a ring to be brought out with my dessert enclosed in a toffee cage, i couldn’t believe my eyes, he then got down on his knee and proposed, and when i said yes and hugged him the whole restaurant errupted in applause. The staff were amazing and very attentive even before they knew of proposal and our waitress was so excited. The food was to die for,the atmosphere was so inviting and the staff are lovely and cannot do enough for you, i have never had an experience quite like it. We will always remember pettavel on that very special evening.
Thank you for making it so memorable!

83 Mark Aitken

Jun 26th, 2008 at 8:07 pm

Pettavel Winery looks and talks the walk. The food and service are devine. The atmosphere and purple walls are great. Always look forward to going there; but its a bit hard from Melbourne. Also have heard the cooking classes are worth attending. The best regional restaurant in Vic; outdoes the Lakehouse for value and flavour!

82 Angela

Jun 26th, 2008 at 7:59 pm

We turned up here late one afternoon and stopped in hoping to get a quick bite to eat. What we found was 5 star service and fabulous food. The staff were so helpful and friendly. We will definately be visiting for a meal in future again - outstanding all round.

81 Patricia & Paul Smith

Jun 26th, 2008 at 7:45 pm

Pettavel rivals anything in the Hunter region’ we think! Very friendly, fantastic service & food.

80 George Younan

Jun 26th, 2008 at 7:45 pm

I have been in the industry for over 30 years, there is no other place I enjoy as much as when sally and I visite pettavel, magnificant fresh food and sensational wine selection and The service is impecable, over the last 4 years that we have been attending pettavel we have never experienced anything other than a time to remember.

79 Robert McGuire

Jun 26th, 2008 at 7:29 pm

As a first time visitor to Pettavel it was certainly one to savour, from the superb food and wines on offer,complimented by impeccable service,with uninterrupted views of the vineyard.A true dining experience

78 t barrett

Jun 26th, 2008 at 7:28 pm

Our visitors loved it, beautiful winery, very helpful staff, would always take our visitors there in the future.

77 josie mastroianni

Jun 26th, 2008 at 5:20 pm

From the moment you drive into the winery it gives you a warm and invinting feel about the place and not to mention the friendly service that goes with it.

76 Janice Chapman

Jun 26th, 2008 at 5:17 pm

Thankyou to the friendly and courteous staff at Pettavel for making our afternoon there , so enjoyble. We invited 2 guests from Melbourne to join us for Sunday Lunch,where we enjoyed wine tasting, delicious meal, and few bottles of wine.
What a pleasure to Dine out in such lovely surroundings, and be looked after by very attentive staff.

75 Fiona O'Donohue

Jun 26th, 2008 at 4:47 pm

Food was superb! Venue was superb! Service was superb! And the view, well, what can I say??!!
My husband and I consider Pettavel to be our No 1 Geelong restaurant.
The RACV survey says we rated it 4.81 out of 5, but I actually wanted to rate it 5 out of 5.

74 Peter Noonan

Jun 26th, 2008 at 4:43 pm

Food quality is excellent and consistent. Staff are knowledgable, courteous, polite and attentive. Wine list is extensive and offers excellent value unlike the prices charged by most restaurants of similar standing.

Pettavel is an excellent dining experience at a reasonable cost for quality and service second to none.

73 Brent

Jun 26th, 2008 at 4:31 pm

Pettavel is the complete package, with great wines, wonderful food, friendly and professional staff, who could ask for more. Nothing is to much trouble for them.
I recomend wine tasting prior to your meal to ensure a 5 star experience every time :))

72 Peter Blamey

Jun 26th, 2008 at 4:28 pm

Ambiance and service are perfectly matched with a wonderfully creative menu of delights created from the freshest of, wherever possible, local ingredients.
We have found the experience repeatable, more than once.

71 Maria & Andrew

Jun 26th, 2008 at 4:19 pm

We have been dining at Pettavel on countless occasions for the past five years and every time it gets better than the last. We have had functions there and have even enjoyed a cooking class as well and all experiences have been wonderful. Even as we are rolling out the door from eating and drinking way too much we still say, “So, when should we come back again?” Arranging a group of friends to go back in a couple of months. Just love it, can’t wait!

70 Bruce & Kaye Valpied

Jun 26th, 2008 at 3:55 pm

We enjoy their excellent wines.

We had a wonderful lunch with fabulous food and especially good service by waiting staff.
Very professional and have recomended to many of our friends.
Pettavel deserve the reputation they enjoy.

We will be back!!!.

69 Bryce Nielsen

Jun 26th, 2008 at 3:22 pm

Simple the best food, service and value for money I’ve experienced. Love going there. The set entrees always give syou sopmething you wouldn’t think to order and never disappoints.

68 Lloyd & Faye Owen

Jun 26th, 2008 at 3:22 pm

We have enjoyed the excellent service and fare at Pettavel on a number of occasions as a couple and as part of larger groups. At one birthday celebration staff gave thoughtful, skilled and special attention to a table for our grandchildren as well as the usual faultless care for the adults.

67 Betty

Jun 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm

My first experience at dining at Pettavel was most impressive. I would place it among the top dining experiences not only here, but any where I have travelled overseas. The service was outstanding, staff could not have been more attentive and the food was great. I am looking forward to repeating the experience in the near future.

66 John Connor

Jun 26th, 2008 at 3:14 pm

I and my wife have taken International visitors to Petavil and they have been startled by the ambience, wine varieties and quality and staff friendliness and service and food quality a not to be missed venue.

65 Brett Mitchell

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:44 pm

Hello,

My wife and I have been dining at Pettavel on average about 4 times per year for the past 5 years.

We have never had a bad experience! On one occasion, we were over charged (charged for 6 rather than 4) yet all of us thought the occasion was terrific and GOOD VALUE FOR MONEY! Once we realised the mistake and advised Pettavel, they’re response was very good; and apoloogetic. the point being, we still felt we had recieved good value for money

The staff have always been of an extremely high quatlity, with a relatively low turn over - always a good sign in a restaurant. The food is excellent and beautifully presented.

Invariably, we purchase wine while out there. The tasting facilities are very good and the staff knowledgible on the wines on offer.

What more can I say, other than I have taken my ‘fussy’ dining mates there and they would endorse my sentiments.

Regards (& sincerely!)

Brett Mitchell

64 Kate Nelson

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:43 pm

My absolute favourite place to go for a complete foodie experience! Love the venue, love the staff and the food - out of this world!

63 Kelly Mckinlay

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:41 pm

We absolutely adore Pettavel! We can’t describe what it is specifically but there is something so magical about this place. The staff are as wonderful and intriguing as the food which by the way is like nothing I have ever tasted. I urge people to not just try this restaurant but to continue going back as the menu changes all the time. Some tips: 1) Set aside lots of time so you can appreciate everything and really relax especially as the view is so lovely, 2) let the staff suggest appropriate wines for each course [they are so knowledgeable and really know their stuff] if you are not a big drinker they have half glasses which is a great way to sample the different wines which are all beautiful. 3) Check out the website for info on their cooking classes. 4) Try to arrive a bit earlier so you can slot in a bit of wine tasting before dining.
Pettavel truly exceeds every expectation and continues to do so every time we dine there.

62 Narelle Caine

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:40 pm

Having dined out at many restaurants, I have never had such a wonderfully relaxing experience as at Pettavel. Not only was the food the most interesting and well presented menu I have enjoyed for some time, the service was outstanding. For a party of 8 dining together, we did not have to wait for drinks, helpful service with choices from the menu nor were there any mixups with meals which is so often the case in larger groups. The Pettavel staff should be highly commended. It is rare to receive great sevice as well as amazing food these days!

Pettavel is now at the top of my special occasion dining list and I will return often.

61 Suzy D'Andrea

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:30 pm

Pettavel winery and restaraunt consistently provides not only fabulous food and wine, it also provides excellent service matched with a spectacular ambience. A total dining pleasure.

60 David Hanney

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:17 pm

Three weeks ago, four of us enjoyed (for the second consecutive year) the 5 course lunch at Pettavel Winery and a few bottles of wine to wash it down with Not only was the food excellent but the service from all staff was as good as I have experienced in many (too many) years of fine dining.
Congratulations to everyone involved in making this such a memorable experience. We look forward to doing it all over again next year.

59 Peter Phair

Jun 26th, 2008 at 2:02 pm

As a fantastic pre or post venue before a ‘Cats’ game, you can’t get better. We even came from Brisbane!! Go Lions!!

58 Belinda Matthews

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:54 pm

Always fabulous food, wonderful service and the best dining experience in the state. Each and very time we have dined at Pettavel we come away thinking that it was the tastiest meal that we have enjoyed.

57 Lynda

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:45 pm

Always a great meal, wine, service and surrounds.

56 margaret pendergast

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:38 pm

We have been to Pettavel many times as a couple and with friends for that special occassion. Pettavel have never let us down and our guest have been suitably impressed and have themselves come back. with their friends to enjoy the experience. The food is always in season, fresh and innovative. Pettavel with it’s location from Melbourne and scenery, is a must do. Pettavel cater from fine dining to a tasting plate in the wine tasting area or simply enjoy tasting the wine from the vine.

55 Nicole King

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:31 pm

I love the fact that every time you dine here you are able to try something different and no 2 dining experiences are ever the same. The produce is fresh, local and always first class. An absolute favourite!

54 Colin Edmondstone

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:29 pm

I travel frequently throughout Victoria and dine at many restaurants. I feel Pettavell offers a great dining experience at the highest level, with an exceptional wine list. I recommend without hesitation Pettavell to all our friends and business associates.

53 Sharon

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:28 pm

The food is truely delicious and the wines are devine. I get in trouble at Christmas time if there isn’t a bottle of their Platina chardonney in my dad’s christmas gifts.

Degustation lunches, dinners are only improved by the knowledgeable and friendly staff.

The only bad thing about Pettavel is leaving it!

52 J Hawke

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:21 pm

Beautiful food in a relaxed elegant setting with wonderful views. Teriffic specialty cooking classes and fantasic wine for tasting or to enjoy with the superb food.

51 Peter Edwards

Jun 26th, 2008 at 1:06 pm

Simply the best dining experience in the district.

50 Kim Udvardy

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:59 pm

I enjoyed a lunch with my Mum and sister to celebate our birthdays in 2007. The food was wonderful, the service fantastic and the personal touch of a personalised menu was lovely.
We had a wonderful time, it was our last family lunch (for the girls) before my sister left to live overseas for 15 months and the memory of the pleasant time we had will be with me always.
Thank you for making our day special.

49 Helen Jennings

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:52 pm

Pettavel is a sensory experience from heaven! Friendly staff indulge you with plenty of smiles, friendly banter, superb wines and absolutely fabulous food - it truly is dining with a difference!

48 Rachel Grieve

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:51 pm

Pettavel provides the most exquisite fine dining experience! Staff have a professional approach to service with an in depth knowledge of the seasonal menu, the meals are second to none and the wine is stunning. Accompany this with a beautiful view and you have a delightful way to spend an afternoon or evening!

47 Tricia Maxwell

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:48 pm

The views at Pettavel are lovely ,the five course lunch was just beautiful and the staff are delightful. From the minute you arrive at Pettavel you know it is going to be an unforgettable experience.Honestly you could not fault anything. Cannot wait to go back !!

46 Susan Lester

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:40 pm

Not just a delicious meal, but an indulgent experience of fine wine, great ambience, superb service and fresh and scrumptious cuisine!

45 Charlie Heywood

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:39 pm

I took my very best friend to Pettavel Winery for her 50th birthday and we both enjoyed the experience immensely. The food, wine and service were excellent. Thank you for making this special occasion such a memorable one.

44 Deborah D'Cruz

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:34 pm

We’ve visited several times, and special dietary requirements have never been an issue, as these are discussed at time of booking and the menu is tailored each day to cover most patrons’ requests. Unobtrusive service, great food and reasonably priced for this level of establishment. Wish there was good accommodation within walking distance for a truly special weekend break.

43 Martin Ward

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:32 pm

I have visited Pettavel Winery on a number of occasions since when it first opened and continue to enjoy the experience. It is one of the finest and most enjoyable of dining experiences. To commence your visit with a tasting of their fine wines - the unique presentation of a mix of the entres - followed by a superb main course of your choice and then a desert of your choice, is a culinary experience to remember. To be able to glance out the window to a panoramic view of rolling hills and feel free and away from the crowd. The staff are excellent and the service exceptional.
I would highly recommend Pettavel to anyone who enjoys quality food and wine and exceptional service.

42 Ellen Self

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:32 pm

Not only is the food and wine just fabulouse but the cooking classes are excellent. All round great place.

41 Peter Hudson

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:31 pm

Visiting Pettavel is not simply visiting a good winery, it is a total “experience” from the moment you enter the building and whether it be to the tasting room or the restaurant or simply to enjoy a glass of wine and the view, the overall ambience is a truly wonderful “experience”.
I have recommended Pettavel to many friends and acquaintances and none have come away disappointed. Well done Pettavel!

40 Sofia Geogiou

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:27 pm

Exquisite food and gorgeous surroundings, coupled with excellent service made for a glorious dining experience!

39 Yvonne Hunter

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:24 pm

Every time I go to Pettavel I feel like I am coming home. My daughter’s was the first wedding catered for at Pettavel after opening and we have had many wonderful meals and events with family and friends since then. We always feel welcomed and the food, wine and service is always excellent. In fact I can’t wait to go there again.

38 Carney

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:22 pm

This winery is close to Melbourne - a great place to stop heading to or from the Great Ocean Rd; has great quality wines for reasonable prices; and a lovely restaurant with a very pleasant view.

I have particularly fond memories of it as lunch at the winery was the perfect treat after running my first marathon (the Great Ocean Rd Marathon)!!

37 Dr Daryl Tucker

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:22 pm

For some years now we have been enjoying the ‘bar lunch’ at Pettavel. On average we go fortnightly. The lunches are based on the entrees which form part of the ‘main meal’. The food is exquisite and the staff only too pleased to accede to our requests for some changes in the contents. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable so much so the restaurant has almost become our ’second’ home.

36 John Schlank

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:19 pm

There is simply nothing that Pettavel lacks; from the sweeping driveway to the greeting at the door, from the friendly and knowledgable service to the excellent produce to the most exquisite meals. It’s a credit to the owners that they have been able to put all the right things together in exactly the right way - a memorable eating experience.

35 Fred High

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:18 pm

Simply the best “silver service” dining experience in Australia. One of the best in the world. The ambience, food, wine and service are unsurpassed.

34 Ian Lennie

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:17 pm

Venue is excellent. Staff were very friendly. Food was terrific. Wine choice enjoyable.
We had a great lunch.
We intend to visit again.

33 Sue Grandfield

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:13 pm

Pettavel have been consistently producing great food, wine and service for several years. Highly recommended!

32 shannon Alsop

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:11 pm

The Food,Wine and Service is awesome. I look foward to going to Pettavel every time.

31 S. Osborne

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:09 pm

One of my favourite ways to spend an afternoon is dining at Pettavel. Fantastic food and wine and the service is always spot on.

30 Veronica Schwarz

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:08 pm

The food is outstanding, beautifully served and the service is top class. The wine is excellent and the serving staff members are very knowledgeable on all that is available. On top of this, Pettavel offer wonderful cooking classes so that you can have a go at preparing some of the wonderful dishes they specialise in and, yes, amaze your family and friends when you serve them.

29 Alicia Carroll

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:04 pm

An amazing food and wine experience! The Pettavel 5 course lunch is a great way to spend a long leisurely afternoon - I’d recommend it to anyone.

28 Ren

Jun 26th, 2008 at 12:00 pm

I have visited several times, service is always wonderful and the food is to die for!

27 June Doyle

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:59 am

I have both dinned and enjoyed the cooking evenings at Petavel, it is the No.1 restaurant I recommend to all my family and friends.

26 Tony

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:34 am

Great tucker and wine selection. Friendly hosts and we will come back soon.

25 Katie Smith

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:20 am

I love to visit Pettavel to try their new wines, and relax with a long lunch

24 Ella Clark

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:17 am

I have always had wonderful experiences at this restaurant down in Geelong. In fact I intend to visit again very shortly.

23 Andrew Jones

Jun 26th, 2008 at 11:14 am

Wonderful wines, exceptional experience

22 Wilhelmina van Hennik

Jun 26th, 2008 at 10:35 am

A n oasis in Victoria, excellent food and friendly service, we will be back to take our friends.

21 Peter Stannard

Jun 26th, 2008 at 8:07 am

The service was excellent ,the meals and wines excellent
We will return,the next time we are down there.

20 Marguerite Busbridge

Jun 26th, 2008 at 6:15 am

I have chosen Pettavel for a family celebration and to meeat with friends as the food is delightful, the outlook spectacular and the staff a treasure!! Now all of that is without mentioning the wine which is tops!!

19 Grey Barnden

Jun 26th, 2008 at 5:56 am

What a delightful dining experience - and with an equally dlightful ambience to go with it. What other establishment gives you this view as well?

18 steven polizzi

Jun 25th, 2008 at 7:39 pm

From the moment you enter Pettaval you are transported on gastronomical journey that stimulates the finests of palates. The long lunch and friday night dinning are in a league of its own and the service and expertise of Pettavals staff is a complement to the establishment. The Good Friday seven course seafood degustation was to die for and Pettavals line of cool climate wines are excellent.
The Southern Emigre Shiraz Vognier was clearly my favorite. ENJOY !!!

17 Bill Busbridge

Jun 25th, 2008 at 6:35 pm

I can say without reservation that I have enjoyed each and every visit to Pettavel, not only is it a awesome experience in great food but a education in wine - especially if you direct any questions to the staff on hand, I certainly will be back on a regular pilgrimage to Pettavel, “ A Huge Thank You to all of the attentive staff”

16 Dr. S. Freeman

Jun 20th, 2008 at 7:41 pm

The staff are very freindly and helpful in suggesting a menu that suits your real needs, especially if you are a vegatarian as I am. The views are just spectacular and the ambience is truly beautiful for that very special celebration!

15 Tony Mathews

Jun 20th, 2008 at 4:48 pm

A great venue with particularly good food and great wine. The service is always first class and is somewhere to go to ahve a special occasion. The surounds are always well kept with plenty of polish applied.

14 Barry Broome

Jun 20th, 2008 at 2:37 pm

As interstate visitors we had a fabulous dining experience.Great food,wine and hospitality in a wonderful setting.Looking forwared to a return visit

13 Simon Middleton

Jun 20th, 2008 at 11:43 am

Pettaval is Victoria’s indulgence package - Great Service, Sumptuous Food, and Superb Wines.

12 Jacquie

Jun 20th, 2008 at 11:08 am

The most wonderful souffle I’ve ever eaten - tangy passionfruit. YUMMY!

11 Julie Stefanoff

Jun 20th, 2008 at 9:13 am

This is an experience not to be missed for all foodies! and great wines to accompany your meal coupled with excellent service Lunch or Dinner at Pettavel is an experience not to be missed.

10 Peter Phillips-Rees

Jun 20th, 2008 at 9:03 am

My wife and I love travelling down to Pettavel from Melbourne to enjoy their long lunch, which provides taste-tantalising array of smaller servings. Great food, excellent wines a wonderful view across the rolling hills and some of the best service we have received anywhere in the world make the Pattavel Restaurant a special occasion every time.

9 Brian and Julie Zrna

Jun 20th, 2008 at 8:30 am

If we could add another star, we would. Pettavel deserves 6 out of 5 in our books.

8 Viv Roberts

Jun 19th, 2008 at 8:49 pm

Two memorable visits to the winery: classic winter medieval tastes and great wines while watching four seasons and the vine leaves float across a180 degree view; six months later, that same great hospitality and an exquisite light array of courses on a blisteringly hot day.

Pettavel, an experience worth sharing!

7 Helen Bolton

Jun 19th, 2008 at 6:13 pm

Exceptional food, presentation and service.

6 Wendy Woodford

Jun 19th, 2008 at 6:10 pm

A consistently memorable wining and dining experience .

5 Alison McKean

Jun 19th, 2008 at 5:04 pm

Pettavel Winery is one of the finest and most enjoyable dining experiences I have encountered. The quality and freshness of the food is exceptional… I enjoyed glancing out the window to see the Chef collecting fresh ingredients for our lunch. It was wonderful to try such a kaleidoscope of flavours in one afternoon. The service is exceptional but not intrusive. I would highly recommend a visit to anyone who enjoys quality food and wine.

4 S Goddard

Jun 19th, 2008 at 3:38 pm

Pettavel’s reputation is second to none in the region and is well deserved.

3 P Maxwell

Jun 19th, 2008 at 3:01 pm

Wonderful food, great wine super view and great service. All in all a excellent dining experience.

2 janelle mcphee

Jun 19th, 2008 at 2:40 pm

great lunch, lovely spot

1 D. Anderson

Jun 19th, 2008 at 2:01 pm

Enjoying wine tasting and a tasting plate at the Pettavel Cellar Door.

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