Soldiers Hill, a suburb of Ballarat in Victoria, is renowned for its rich history and vibrant food and drink scene. The area offers a diverse range of dining experiences, ranging from traditional pubs serving classic Australian fare to modern establishments embracing international influences. One standout option is The North Star Hotel, a historic pub that seamlessly blends elements of its past with a modern Melbourne-inspired aesthetic. Other notable highlights include Cobb's Coffee, a neighborhood cafe named after the iconic Gold Rush era business that once occupied the site, and Johnny Alloo, a contemporary eatery that pays tribute to Ballarat's culinary history through its minimalistic art-deco design and comforting brews.
Wine enthusiasts can indulge in top regional drops at Mitchell Harris Wines, which offers a curated selection of wines from Victoria's finest wineries in their wine bar. Additionally, there are several pubs in the area catering to diverse tastes, such as Aunty Jacks for a cozy ambiance, Freight Bar and Rooftop for stunning rooftop views, Renard for cocktails featuring native ingredients, and Hop Temple for aficionados of craft beer.
Moving beyond Soldiers Hill, Ballarat itself boasts a thriving food scene with various enticing options like Hydrant Food Hall, housed in a former fire sprinkler display room, and Lola at The Provincial Hotel, celebrated for its seasonal, locally sourced dishes and impressive wine selection. Visitors to the area can also delve into the rich history of the Gold Rush era at Sovereign Hill, where they can try their hand at panning for gold or immerse themselves in the lively recreation of an 1850s gold mining settlement. For wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to Ballarat Wildlife Park offers the chance to encounter native Australian animals up close, adding to the diverse array of experiences available in the region.