Seven Sensational Restaurants to Experience in Margaret River

There is just no denying that dining out is a huge part of the fun when travelling. Whether you are spending your time at a new location or relaxing at a spot you frequently visit, you always have to answer the question, “what’s for dinner?”

When you travel to Margaret River, you will find numerous restaurants offering a variety of cuisine. Here are seven favourites you should not miss.

1. La Scarpetta Trattoria

73 Brussell Highway
Margaret River, WA 6285
+61 8 9757 9234

Indulge your taste for authentic Italian cuisine with a visit to La Scarpetta Trattoria. Pasta is made on-site each day, and the exquisite sauces and meat dishes represent the regional bounty of fresh ingredients. The dishes are touched with Sicilian, Tuscan, and Mediterranean influences while giving the nod to the incredible local Australian food. La Scarpetta has something for everyone, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

The warmth of La Scarpetta lends itself to romantic dinners as well as family get-togethers or a night out with friends. You can also opt to enjoy the beautiful landscaping with outdoor dining, weather permitting.

La Scarpetta is a local favourite as well as being an award-winning restaurant. Stop by for an unforgettable Italian feast. Come as you are. Casual attire is welcome.

Other features at La Scarpetta include,

• Parking available
• Wheelchair accessible
• Takeaway meals available
• Full-bar service
• Accepts reservations
• Highchairs available
• Gift cards and E-vouchers are available and do not expire for three years. Please note E-vouchers and gift cards cannot be used to purchase takeaway.

La Scarpetta is open Monday-Saturday 5:00 pm-10:00 pm, Sunday hours are 5:00 pm-9:00 pm.

2. El Toro Margaret River

49 Town View Terrace
Margaret River WA 6285
0451 378 783

If you go a bit east of Memorial Park, you will find the treasure that is El Toro restaurant. The unpretentious surroundings and décor may not give away El Toro’s standing as a highly rated restaurant. Still, one taste of the delectable offerings, and you will know you are dining on food made by masters of the art of South American cuisine.

Chefs at El Toro take special care as they marry local Australian ingredients and South American techniques and create sublime meals for customers to savour. All meals are cooked over coals adding to the flavour of the food and the uniqueness of the restaurant.

You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at El Toro, and they offer a luscious list of desserts that will satisfy any sweet tooth. If you are looking to cap off your meal, try one of the local Margaret River wines. You can also enjoy some of El Toro’s top-shelf tequilas or mezcals or choose one of the impressive seasonal cocktails.

Informal attire is the norm at El Toro, so feel free to come as you are. The restaurant is open from 7:00 am-10:00 pm every day except Wednesday, when they are closed.

Other features at El Toro include,

• Free off-street parking
• Reservations accepted
• Gift cards available
• Vegetarian and vegan options
• Large party accommodations and catering
• Non-smoking restaurant
• Highchairs available
• Take away available at 20 per cent off menu prices
• Ask about catering

3. Morries

2/149 Bussell Hwy
Margaret River WA 6285
08 9758 8280

If you are looking for a unique and delicious bite, stop at Morries. Their story began in 2012 when they opened. Dedicated to the book Tuesdays with Morrie, the restaurant is much more than a highly rated tapas bar. Morries has reached the elevation of a local institution as it creates a place to celebrate life and the people who matter.

The tapas-style menu lets customers sample some extraordinarily creative offerings based on Australian cuisine featuring local ingredients. The skillful dinner menu can only be rivalled by the outstanding array of handmade cocktails detailed in a 26-page beverage menu.

The atmosphere is upbeat, with friendly and knowledgeable waitstaff who excel at keeping your glasses and table full of moreish delights. Check the events schedule on their website for a live music itinerary. Morries is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:00 pm-10:00 pm. Reservations are not required. However, if you are in the region for a limited time or planning on celebrating a special event, booking ahead is a wise choice.

Other features at Morries include,

• Free off-street parking
• Wheelchair accessible
• Outdoor seating
• Vegetarian and vegan friendly
• Live music
• Full bar
• Accepts reservations
• Free Wi-Fi
• Gift vouchers available

4. Arc of Iris

151 Bussell Hwy
Margaret River WA 6285
08 9757 3112

One of the oldest restaurants in Margaret River, the Arc of Iris – https://www.arcofiris.com.au/ has delighted diners for over a quarter of a century. The welcoming and slightly eclectic atmosphere has kept locals and travellers visiting while other restaurants come and go.

The impeccable cuisine mixes Australian and Italian dishes with international flair and influence. The diverse menu offers small plates, grilled entrees, pasta, seafood, and so much more. The local favourites are the twice-cooked duck and the crispy pork belly. Desserts are made in-house, and Arc of Iris also offers a children’s menu.

Full bar service with an extensive list of local wines and beers is available. The Arc of Iris sources local spirits whenever possible and offers a wide selection of soft drinks.

Diners can enjoy live music every weekend. Each Friday and Sunday night, the always entertaining Marc of Iris shares his popular music stylings from the 1980s and 1990s. Saturday night musical entertainment calendar can be found on the restaurant’s website. You can visit the Arc of Iris Monday-Thursday from 5:00 pm-9:00 pm and weekends from 5:00 pm-10:00 pm.

Other features at Arc of Iris include,

• Free off-street parking
• Outdoor seating
• Wheelchair accessible
• Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free selections
• Free Wi-Fi
• Highchairs available
• Accepts reservations
• Full Bar service
• Party room for private events
• Live music every weekend
• Dog friendly

5. Chang Thai Kitchen

1/31 Station Rd
Margaret River WA 6285
+61 8 9757 2897

Are you interested in outstanding Thai and Asian cuisine? Look no further than the heart of Margaret River, where you will find Chang Thai Kitchen. Primarily known as a takeaway restaurant, Chang Thai Kitchen also offers limited eat-in seating and is BYOB friendly.

The food is mainly Thai with other Asian and Australian influences, and the meals served are exceptionally fresh and flavourful. When possible, Chang Thai Kitchen uses locally sourced ingredients and adds a delightful touch to traditional dishes.

Reservations are not required but calling in advance for takeaway is recommended as the restaurant gets quite busy. You can visit Chang Thai Kitchen Tuesday through Sunday from 4:30 pm-9:00 pm.

Other features of Chang Thai Restaurant include,

• Parking available
• Takeaway
• Seating available
• Wheelchair accessible
• Table service

6. Swings & Roundabouts Taphouse Margaret River

85 Bussell Hwy
Margaret River WA 6285
+61 8 9758 7155

For a unique and charming experience in Margaret River Swings and Roundabouts Taphouse never disappoints. The in-town affiliate to the Yallingup location, locals and visitors find warm welcomes, enticing food, and a wine list beyond compare. The focus is on providing a comfortable and upbeat place where everyone feels at home.

The delightful taphouse features a menu that is driven by local and seasonal offerings. Hand-stretched wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads are perfectly at home next to lamb shoulder and prawns. Finish your meal with one of the delicious dessert options. Swings and Roundabouts Taphouse also offers an exceptional selection of starters ideal for enjoying a glass of their private label wine whilst listening to live music.

Reservations are accepted but not required. However, calling ahead can help you avoid a long wait for parties of eight or more. Swings and Roundabouts Taphouse is an ideal location for everything from family outings to professional events. Outdoor balcony seating, large family tables, and quiet romantic corners are available based on your preference. You can visit the taphouse every day from 3:00 pm until much later.

Other features of Swings and Roundabouts Taphouse include,

• Free off-street parking
• Outdoor seating available
• Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available
• Wheelchair accessible
• Non-smoking
• Takeaway
• Dog friendly

7. Settlers Tavern

114 Bussell Highway
Margaret River WA 6285
+61 8 9757 239

For an award-winning meal in a fun setting, Settlers Tavern will not disappoint. This local landmark opened as a space for surfers and surfing enthusiasts in the 1970s. Since then, Settlers Tavern, affectionately known as “the Tav”, welcomes a melting pot of locals, winemakers, families, and visitors on holiday.

The menu has something for everyone. Pub food, steaks, pasta, and 100 per cent Australian seafood are served with enticing side dishes. Save room to enjoy one of the desserts made in-house.

The wine selection at Settlers Tavern is legendary. You can choose from 30 wines by the glass or over 600 kinds of wine by the bottle. The impressive selection features award-winning local vintages as well as international wines.

The Settlers Tavern drink menu does not stop with wine. The bar also boasts over 60 bottled beer varieties and 16 beers on tap. Additionally, you can choose from over 100 types of spirits and liqueurs or one of the many creative cocktails.

Bookings are suggested for bistro seating, but the whole menu is available at the bar. Settlers Tavern is open every day from 11:30 am- 8:45 pm. However, no food is served between 3:00 pm-5:00 pm.

Other features of Settlers Tavern include,

• Parking
• Free Wi-Fi
• Sports bar
• Non-smoking
• Live music
• Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options
• Outdoor seating
• Full bar
• Wheelchair accessible