Where to eat in the Lockyer Valley

How can you be hungry when you’re cruising through Australia’s "salad bowl"? The Lockyer Valley region is known for its rich black alluvial soil, temperate climate, accessible water and agricultural innovation. The region supplies produce all over the country and is one of the largest producers of corn and beans, and organic produce.

But just to be sure the food is good, you’d better taste the fruits of the land first-hand.

Country pubs

You can’t beat a top meal at a classic country pub. The Lockyer Valley has four in its remit – which you can visit by car, or by helicopter.

Porters Plainland Hotel has daily specials, accommodation and a monthly market. Open since 1914, the hotel overlooks the Lockyer and is an icon on the Warrego Highway. With plenty of tempting dishes made with locally-sourced produce you cant go their gourmet burgers or something from the grill. Want a challenge? Try one of the Valley's biggest steaks the 800g tomahawk rib on the bone, juicy and tender it pairs perfectly with a brew.  

The Royal Hotel sits in the main street of Gatton and features refurbished accommodation suites. The restaurant and bar is open seven days.

In Laidley, the Queensland National Hotel (or QN) has beds, a restaurant and bottle shop. The hotel's recently had a facelift and the restaurant meals are as delicious as they are huge! Relax in the beer garden in the shade and spend the day shooting the breeze and sipping on cold, cold beers. 

Home to the Mulga Steakhouse, the Mulgowie Hotel often has live music on Sundays, and bull rides twice annually. 

Over 100 years old The Lockyer Hotel is home to live music and traditional pub meals. Tuck in to a classic steak or chicken parmy with your family or mates and enjoy the heritage features and surrounds. 

Forest Hill Hotel built in 1898 is a popular spot for stopping if you are travelling the Cobb & Co Tourist Drive. Serving up a Thai style fare, you will find something light and bright to send you on your way with a full belly.

The Withcott Hotel offers a unique country meets city vibe. Here you can enjoy a meal on the Garden Deck or relax in the Beer Garden. 

History calls

Explore a slice of German history at Das Neumann Haus in Laidley. Within it, Annie’s Place Coffee Shop is the perfect spot to fuel up with Devonshire tea during your heritage crawl.

Cafes and restaurants

Don’t let the title fool you, Cafe 4342 is also a restaurant and a local favourite for special occasions. The Forest Hill cafe is located in the Post Office building, so you can’t miss it. 

Originally an old grocery store, Caffe Sorella is another Forest Hill hotspot for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The cafe also has homewares and gifts.

While away an afternoon with tea and cake at the Laidley Florist & Rustique Rose Tea Room. Loose-leaf tea is served in fine bone china and the shop is filled with gifts to take home.

Killing Time with Coffee – a great name for a coffee shop. This one is located in Gatton and serves homemade food and cakes alongside a cuppa with free internet tablets and books to browse while killing time.

For wholesome, gourmet eats, Jak & Mo Taste Co in downtown Gatton puts the best of the Lockyer’s produce to good use in a healthy menu.

Sage On Hickey's menu embraces local produce and is considered one of Gatton’s best kept secrets. Embracing family friendly dining this gem of a spot is perfect for a lazy lunch or a fancy night out. 

If classic pub food or a local cafe won’t cut it, try Oh! Sushi in Gatton. The menu combines Japanese and Korean cuisine in sushi, rice and noodle bowls.

Wine down

Round out time spent in the Lockyer Valley with a cheeky cellar door visit to Preston Peak Wines. Open 10am-2pm Wednesday to Sunday, the winery enjoys spectacular elevated views over the Great Dividing Range.