Tastes of Greater Geelong 2025: A winter celebration of flavour

Now in its 14th year, Tastes of Greater Geelong returns with over 80 events celebrating the region’s rich food, wine, and hospitality culture.

This mid-winter festival offers a diverse and delicious program that invites locals and visitors alike to explore the tastes, traditions, and talents that make Greater Geelong one of Australia’s most exciting culinary destinations.

From street festivals and brunches to exclusive dining and hands-on classes, there’s something for every palate.

Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here. 

 

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Tastes Winter Festival

• When: 20 June 2025, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
• Where: Johnstone Park, Geelong

Kick off the festival in style at this magical winter celebration in the heart of Geelong. Expect multicultural street food, glowing fire pits, and sweet treats like hot chocolate and mulled wine. Watch dazzling light projections on City Hall and immerse yourself in interactive art installations by Carla O’Brien. With roving performers, a silent disco led by Guru Dudu, and vibrant community spirit, this free family-friendly event sets the tone for a month of culinary joy.

Midweek Leisurely Lunch

• When: Every Thursday & Friday from 20 June to 4 July
• Where: Mt Duneed Estate

Enjoy a relaxing two-course lunch surrounded by vineyard views at Mt Duneed Estate. Choose from a selection of main meals accompanied by a shared side and a glass from the estate’s Regional wine range. Finish with a delightful dessert and tea or coffee in the estate’s warm, welcoming dining space. Perfect for a winter midweek treat with friends or loved ones.

Bubbles and Brunch

 

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• When: 21 June 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
• Where: Waterfront Pantry, Geelong

Step into a chic converted wool store on the Geelong waterfront and enjoy a two-course brunch curated by Head Chef Bevan Vahland. This shared-to-table menu highlights regional produce and is paired with flowing sparkling wine, fresh coffee, and tea. It’s the ideal way to ease into the weekend in a stylish, relaxed setting with flavours to match the view.

Sip, Stir & Shake: A Hands-On Cocktail Masterclass

• When: Multiple Dates
• Where: Non Disclosure Bar, Geelong

Learn the secrets behind your favourite cocktails at this fun and interactive masterclass. Enjoy a Prosecco on arrival before diving into cocktail history, techniques, and hands-on mixing. You’ll make and taste two cocktails each session, with themes like “Juniper Jaunt” and “Wowing Whiskies.” Whether you’re a cocktail novice or enthusiast, this engaging session at Non Disclosure Bar is sure to impress.

Upcoming Themes:

• June 22 – Juniper Jaunt (Southside & Martini)
• June 29 – Tasty Tequilas (Paloma & Margarita)
• July 6 – Modern Classics (Espresso Martini & Amaretto Sour)
• July 13 – Wowing Whiskies (Whiskey Sour & Old Fashioned)
• July 20 – Rum Rendezvous (Daiquiri & Mai Tai)

Argot du Brunch à Volonté (Bottomless Brunch)

• When: 22 June 2025, 11:00 AM
• Where: Claribeaux, Curlewis

Indulge in a luxurious French-inspired four-course brunch at Claribeaux. This bottomless experience includes free-flowing champagne, Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and more. Enjoy premium mocktails, barista-made coffee, or loose-leaf tea in a beautifully designed space. It’s a sophisticated yet playful way to enjoy a long brunch with friends, with something for everyone on offer.

 

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18th Amendment Bar Gin Dinner at Tulip

• When: 25 June 2025, 6:00 PM
• Where: Tulip Restaurant, Geelong

Experience a one-night-only collaboration between Tulip Restaurant and the 18th Amendment Bar. Enjoy Tulip’s “Chef’s Selection” menu paired with gin tastings, cocktails, and a signature G&T. This intimate evening is limited to just 50 guests and features bold, local flavours from both kitchen and bar. Vegan, vegetarian, and other dietary needs are welcomed with advance notice.

Traditional Ukrainian Dinner

 

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• When: 25 June
• Where: The Dill Seafood Restaurant, Ocean Grove

Celebrate culture and comfort at The Dill with a special Ukrainian dinner crafted by Head Chef Ivan Roianov. Each dish reflects traditional Eastern European flavours with a focus on hearty ingredients like potatoes, mushrooms, cabbage, and meats. Expect vibrant, soulful food that tells a story and offers a taste of Ukraine’s rich culinary heritage in a welcoming, coastal setting.

Geelong Decantered: A Tasting Series

• When: Every Thursday from 26 June to 10 July
• Where: Geelong Cellar Door, Geelong

Join a four-week wine tasting journey showcasing the best of Geelong’s wine regions including the Bellarine, Moorabool Valley, and Surf Coast. Each session highlights local terroir and innovative winemaking, guided by expert hosts. Held in the intimate Geelong Cellar Door, this series offers a personal connection to winemakers and their stories, making it a must-attend for wine lovers.

Mid Winter Banquet: Baah Lah! and Anther Distillery

 

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• When: 26 June
• Where: Baah Lah!, Geelong

Take your tastebuds on a Singapore-inspired journey with an eight-course banquet by Baah Lah!’s Brian Anderson. Each dish is paired with cocktails crafted by Sebastian Reaburn using Anther Distillery’s award-winning spirits. Highlights include Mooncake Gin and unique non-alcoholic pairings created with local artisans The Curious Cabinet. A warm, creative, and bold dining experience perfect for a winter’s night.

The Davidson Native Dining Experience

• When: 27 June, 6:30 PM
• Where: The Davidson, Geelong

Explore native Australian ingredients in an elegant four-course menu designed by Executive Chef Daniel Brehaut. Held at The Davidson, this event is paired with cocktails featuring The Curious Cabinet’s shrub syrups and wines from Lethbridge. Celebrate local flavours in a sophisticated and welcoming setting, ideal for foodies seeking an experience grounded in Australia’s culinary roots.

Smoked Fish Winter Warmers: Cooking Class

• When: 29 June & 6 July, 10:30 AM – 1:00 PM
• Where: Bellarine Smokehouse, Drysdale

Warm up your winter kitchen with this hands-on cooking class led by Bellarine Smokehouse owner Sarah Fenton. Learn to prepare comforting dishes like smoked fish chowder, barramundi curry, and a hearty fish pie using locally smoked seafood. With tips on techniques and health benefits, this class is a delicious introduction to cooking with smoked fish at home.

For more information, head here.

This article was made in partnership with City of Greater Geelong.

words by staff writer