Riverland Road Trip: Where to Eat in the Fruit Fly Free Area

A bountiful of orchards and sprawling vineyards, Riverland is where nature’s sweetest offerings flourish. A place where the majestic Murray, Australia’s longest river, gracefully winds through the terrain and flanked by cliffs.

At the very heart of the Riverland region flows the mighty Murray, so it’s no wonder that the river is the pulse of every adventure here. For an unforgettable holiday, why not indulge in the ultimate waterside escape by renting a houseboat?

No special permits are required—just aboard and set sail. With spacious cabins and plenty of room to unwind, it’s the perfect way to drift through this picturesque paradise, where every turn reveals a new waterway to explore.

The Riverland is also home to some legendary wineries, with Berri Estates standing tall as one of the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. While its wines may not be crowned the finest, its barrels offer an unbeatable value—perfect for those looking to stock up without breaking the bank. Definitely a spot to pin on your itinerary for a quirky, budget-friendly wine experience!

Read More: POV: You're Not A Party Person But You're In Adelaide

Dining Out Spots... Restaurants That I've Tried - So Far!

There’s truly no place quite like the Australian outback, with its vast, sweeping skies, endless horizons, and a sense of boundless space that makes you feel both free and awe-struck. And what better way to elevate your journey than by pairing it with the irresistible flavors of the region?

With fresh local produce and inventive culinary flair, the Riverland’s must-visit restaurants offer a delicious way to fuel your adventure. Indulge in a world of flavors—from the zest of Asian cuisine to the elegance of Western fare—all in this pristine, fruit-fly-free area.

Mallee Fowl Restaurant

This one-of-a-kind gem in the Riverland boasts a whimsical design and sits nestled within eleven acres of enchanting bushland. Mallee Fowl offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and outback spirit, making it a must-visit destination for the adventurously curious.

A delightful highlight of the Mallee Fowl Restaurant is its enchanting animal petting area! Little adventurers (and the young at heart) can interact with an array of Australian creatures—from curious emus and charming ducks to the mesmerizing lyrebird—all roaming freely in a vast enclosure. And yes, even llamas join the mix, adding a playful twist to this unique bushland experience!

This restaurant's menu offers a tantalizing selection, each dish crafted to delight the senses. I savored the Chicken Bianco, a beautifully prepared, delicious dish that left a lasting impression. For those inclined to sip and unwind, a cozy mini-bar awaits, perfect for enjoying a quiet drink amidst the rustic ambiance.

Mallee Fowl Restaurant

Address: Lot, 19042 Sturt Hwy, Monash SA 5342

Menu: malleefowlrestaurant.com

Chill 'N' Grill

South Australia has an enduring love affair with the schnitzel—or "schnitty", as the locals fondly call it. This classic dish, tracing its roots to German settlers who arrived in droves, has found a permanent place in South Australian hearts and menus alike. And today, the passion for schnitty only grows stronger!

In my view, Chill 'N' Grill is the undisputed champion of schnitty! Their version is mouthwatering, with a generous portion that's perfect for sharing—unless, of course, you’re ready to take on the challenge solo. Served with fresh, crunchy coleslaw and golden, crispy potato wedges, it’s a plate that’s hard to resist. And for those pizza lovers, you’re in luck: the pizza here is a local favorite, especially on holidays when boxes fly off the shelves!

Chill 'N' Grill

Address: 179/181 Murray Ave, Renmark SA 5341

Menu: chillngrill.net.au

Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre

Savoring wine with sweeping views of wetlands and vineyards? Riverland’s Banrock Station is a must-visit destination, ideal for breakfast, lunch, or even a relaxed coffee break. While the food is modest, the alfresco deck provides a lovely setting to take in the scenery.

At the Cellar Door, you’ll find a delightful selection of Banrock Station wines available for tasting and purchase, making it the perfect stop for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Banrock Station Wine & Wetland Centre

Address: 19 Holmes Road, Kingston On Murray, Riverland, South Australia, 5331

Menu: banrockstation.com.au

Nui's Thai Kitchen

Craving Thai food? Riverland has you covered with two fantastic options: Jimmy's Thai and Nui's Thai Kitchen. At Jimmy's, the smoky fried rice is a must-try, packed with flavor and warmth. For a more authentic Thai experience, head to Nui's Thai Kitchen.

Though modest in ambiance, Nui’s menu bursts with vibrant flavors and colorful dishes. I couldn’t resist the Tamarind Duck, and the Pad Prik King Pla—a dry stir-fry with a perfectly balanced salty-sweet kick—is simply unforgettable.

Nui's Thai Kitchen

Address: 35 Renmark Ave, Renmark SA 5341

Menu: Nui's Thai Kitchen

Loxton Hotel

Step back into the 1900s in the charming town of Loxton! A visit to the Loxton Historical Village transports you to Riverland's past, with over 45 preserved buildings, including Tractor Sheds, Horse & Carriages, Hairdresser salons, and Carpenter's Workshops—a perfect setting for history lovers and curious travelers alike.

While in Loxton, treat yourself to a meal at the Loxton Hotel. This welcoming accommodation features a spacious bistro with an enticing array of Western dishes. The Scotch Fillet Steak is the star of the menu, juicy and perfectly cooked, while the Kangaroo Fillet offers a uniquely Australian twist—perhaps an acquired taste, but worth trying at least once!

For a lighter bite with a cold beer, swing by Loxton Pizza Bar along the Town Center road. Although famous for their pizzas, don’t miss out on their fried chicken—it’s delightfully crispy and surprisingly delicious!

Loxton Hotel

Address: 45 East Terrace, Loxton SA 5333

Menu: loxtonhotel.com.au

TD Vietnamese Kitchen

Visiting Riverland in winter? There’s nothing like savoring a steaming bowl of pho to warm you up. In Barmera, TD Vietnamese Kitchen—a new yet already popular spot—offers authentic Vietnamese dishes that have quickly won over locals and travelers alike.

From the fragrant beef pho and comforting wonton soup to the flavorful pork meatball rice, every dish I've tried has been a delight for the palate and perfectly soothing. And for those craving a bold, nutty kick, their Vietnamese iced coffee is a must-try indulgence.

TD Vietnamese Kitchen

Address: Shop 5/5 Barwell Ave, Barmera SA 5345

Menu: TD Vietnamese Kitchen

For those seeking a quick bite before your next Riverland adventure, you’ll find familiar favorites like McDonald’s and KFC ready to keep you fueled. But don’t overlook the local charm—there are delightful bakeries, like Waikerie and Paringa Bakery, open nearly every day and brimming with freshly baked treats.

Whether you're after a hearty meal or a simple snack, Riverland’s culinary stops ensure you’re well-prepared for whatever the journey brings!

Latest Updates