3 Best Restaurants in The South West Wine Region, Western Australia

Just off Smiths Beach is the chic eatery-cum-delicatessan-cum–cellar door, Lamont's. It does a fantastic breakfast—think cured salmon with scrambled eggs—and is popular for "sundowners," which is the local description for a glass of wine at sunset, often with tapas. Café lunches are lovely and simple, but more refined options are available in the restaurant. From noon till late, dine on sage and prosciutto-wrapped chicken breast with whipped feta; confit duck leg drizzled with vino cotto jus; or grilled local snapper with a side of organic quinoa salad. Executive chef Kate Lamont is CEO and ambassador for Lamont's (check out her cookbooks). You're welcome to pop in for wine tasting at the adjoined wine store and deli without eating at the restaurant.

Sometimes you don’t need to dab foams or spread purees across a plate to impress; sometimes you just have to serve up consistently good, hearty fare that fills the belly and doesn’t burn a hole in the pocket. The crowds at this pub are testament to the fact that Settler's got the formula right, be it a thick scotch fillet cooked to perfection or a vegan plate of joy featuring a lentil patty, ratatouille, and brown rice. The awards keep piling in, too. They've been commended for their wine, beer, and hospitality.  The kitchen often closes at 8:30 pm so get there earlier

Verdant bushland, manicured vineyards and expansive views all the way down to Geographe Bay are show-stopping features of this modern restaurant. Expect the unexpected and be pleasantly surprised by culinary creations that change with the turning of each season. In keeping, the accent is on the use of fresh, local produce. Look out for house-cured salmon, crunchy edged pork belly with creamed truffle potatoes, or the Amelia Park lamb rack with polenta and pine nuts. The extensive dessert menu is just as appealing, so leave room for sweets. On Friday night, pasta and risotto dishes are featured.