Chris's Restaurant

Overview

Perched high in the Otways above Apollo Bay, Chris’s Beacon Point pairs a destination‑worthy view of Bass Strait with polished, classic hospitality. It’s a long‑running icon that began in Lorne in 1972, opened this hilltop location in 1979, rebuilt after a 2003 fire, and has recently changed hands after 53 years. The draw remains the same: sunset light over the water and a dining room designed to showcase it.

Food & Drink

Expect a Southern European and Middle Eastern‑leaning menu with a distinctly Greek accent, and a strong focus on pristine seafood—if it isn’t fresh, it isn’t served. Regulars rave about grilled octopus, saganaki and lamb, with house‑made desserts like meringues and sorbet finishing things off. Portions are generous, and the wine list is curated to match the flavors.

Setting & Vibe

Inside, sandstone floors, native redgum and blackwood timbers, and an eight‑meter brushbox centerpiece give the room warmth and character. Floor‑to‑ceiling windows frame the coastline; by night, you can see Apollo Bay’s lights and the surrounding ferns and manna gums softly lit. A wood fire keeps winter dinners cozy; air‑conditioning makes summer lunches easy.

Nature Notes

You’re surrounded by Otways bush—ferns and manna gums where koalas are known to feed after dark. Around the villas, rosellas often visit balconies. It’s an unusually wild setting for a white‑tablecloth meal.

Best Time to Visit

For the signature outlook, aim for lunch or a summer dinner when daylight stretches and the water glows. Golden hour into sunset delivers the most dramatic color; request a window table when you book. Weekends and holiday periods are popular and can mean slower pacing—plan a relaxed meal and don’t stack tight plans afterward. Given the recent change of ownership, always confirm current trading days and hours before you go.

Good to Know

There are studios and villas on site if you want to make a night of it. Parking is available on the property. If you’re particular about a dish or BYO, call ahead—policies and menus can shift with the season and the new team.