For an Island its size, Kangaroo Island really packs a punch in the gourmet food and drink department…year-round. From award winning gins to breathtaking cellar doors and quirky coffee shops. If you are a dedicated foodie, you will not be disappointed.
Here we have curated some of our favorite eating and drinking spots, and some inside tips on the best times to visit if you can bring yourself to leave the comfort of your Stowaway…
Gastronomo’s The Feast & Enchanted Fig Tree
Many people will come to Kangaroo Island especially to have this unique dining experience. The Feast is Gastronomo’s spring dining offering utilizing a 100 year old woolshed and open fire cooking techniques. Our guests who have dined here so far have raved about the food and the atmosphere. Mention you are staying with us for a complimentary welcome cocktail. Nice!
The Enchanted Fig Tree is by now very well known, maybe even famous? A once in a lifetime opportunity to dine in a fig tree, the food is wonderful and inspired by seasonal local produce.
Bookings for both are essential here. Would like a transfer from Stowaway to the venue? Reach out to us, we are happy to organise this for you. Closes for the winter season on the 25th April 2024. Coming in spring summer 24/25? Book your table as it books out quickly!
The Pick and Shovel
This little gem has only just opened in the main town of Kingscote. Created by the same owners of KI Brewery it is a quaint ‘hole in wall’ type venue where you can order wine and cocktails with a share plate of charcuterie. Looking over the main thorofare of Kingscote, perch at the outdoor bar and take in the rhythm of this unique sea side town. Open from 4pm daily. Check out their socials for specials and here for opening hours.
Amadios Wine Bar | Vino E Cucina
Located just down from The Pick and Shovel you can finish your Kingscote outing with lunch (12-2:30pm) or Dinner (5 -9pm) in one of Kingscote’s original historic buildings. Anti-pasti, wood fired pizza, pasta and a great local wine list. Have a look at the menu here.
Millie Mae’s Pantry
Located in the heart of Penneshaw in a 100 year old fruit orchard Millie Mae’s serves up high end café fare with a focus on seasonality and local produce. Great coffee and cold press juices as well as a charming rustic fit out, the perfect brunch or lunch stopover as you get off the ferry.
False Cape Wines
A 15 minute drive from Penneshaw is the newly opened False Cape Wines. Whilst they have been well known for their quality wine, they are also the go to spot for a relaxed lunch which slides on into the afternoon. With easy DIY tasting paddles with full wine notes you can enjoy a grazing board or home made pie while you decide what bottles you want to take home.
The Oyster Farm Shop
Where else would you look for fresh oysters other than an Island paradise? Perched on the American River wharf within swinging distance of the oyster lease, at Kangaroo Islands Oyster Farm Shop you can taste fresh Pacific Oysters as you watch the days haul brought in to shore. Choose from seven hot or cold toppings at the deli style shop or get a dozen to take home for entrée.
KI Spirits
Not a secret anymore, KI Spirits is a multi global award-winning boutique gin distillery in the Cygnet River region. The perfect spot for an afternoon cocktail or two in the eclectic garden beneath the festoon lights. With unique cocktails on the menu get some inspiration and get some gin to enjoy long after your holiday is over.
Cactus Coffee + Food
Right on the main street of Kingscote Cactus is a local favorite, with excellent coffee and a fresh Asian inspired menu it’s a great place for a spot of lunch or a takeaway latte and some of their famous Portuguese custard tarts.
Islander Estate
For the serious wine connoisseur, it would be a mistake to miss The Islander Estate Tasting Rooms at Cygnet River. Have an expert take you through their wines, and explain the unique fusion of the vineyards of France with wine making on Kangaroo Island. The staff are warm and knowledgeable, and offer bookable curated experiences to our guests (both in house and at the Cellar Door).
Vivonne Bay General Store
A local takeaway shop like they used to be, Vivonne Bay General Store has been transformed in recent years. Recently renovated into a laid back oceanside hangout offering quality takeaway fare. Home to the famous KI Whiting Burger it’s a perfect stop off on the way to or from Flinders Chase National Park. Eat in the new decked area or take it away and eat down the beach or overlooking the jetty as the cray boats unload their catch.
Don’t plan on leaving your Stowaway or the duration of your stay? That’s fine too! Have a look at our in house food and drink hamper options, where we bring the goods to you.