Gather your favourite people, raise a glass, and celebrate a season made for long lunches, cheeky spritzes and group selfies.
Friendsmas is the unofficial holiday reunion we all need, where the dress code is "festive," the vibe is "fun," and the memories taste as good as the food. From beer gardens to long lunches among vineyards, here are nine perfect spots to host your Friendsmas celebration across the Mornington Peninsula.
1. T'Gallant, Main Ridge
Rustic, relaxed and effortlessly charming, T'Gallant is made for big tables and happy chatter. Enjoy shared pizzas, crisp regional Pinot Grigio and that iconic country-lane vibe. The menu is classic Italian with a Peninsula twist, perfect for topping up glasses and celebrating the fun of Friendsmas.
2. Crittenden Restaurant, Dromana
New to the scene, Crittenden Restaurant offers a fresh, produce-driven menu designed for enjoying in good company. The outdoor dining area is perfect for a laid-back Friendsmas catch-up, surrounded by lakeside vines. Expect elegant dishes, premium wines and relaxed, effortless festive dining.
3. Green Olive at Red Hill, Red Hill
A farm-to-table feast complete with olives, wine, lamb and produce straight from the paddock. Green Olive is both wholesome and wildly delicious, ideal for relaxed groups who love grazing boards, farm views and wandering among olive trees. A cosy favourite that feels like celebrating at a friend's countryside home.
4. Morning Sun Winery, Main Ridge
A picturesque vineyard restaurant overlooking rolling hills, Morning Sun Winery delivers Mediterranean-inspired menus designed around local seasonal produce. Enjoy house wines, rustic flavours and generous shared plates with scenic vineyard views. It's a charming, down-to-earth favourite, perfect for a relaxed but memorable Friendsmas lunch.
5. Stumpy Gully Vineyard & Restaurant, Moorooduc
Family-owned and full of relaxed vineyard charm, Stumpy Gully is the definition of warm hospitality. Enjoy hearty, produce-rich dishes with estate wines while soaking in those lush Moorooduc rows. A long-time local favourite, it's ideal for groups wanting authentic flavours and fuss-free festive vibes.
6. The Epicurean Red Hill
Known for its industrial-chic architecture, open kitchen and Italian-inspired dishes, The Epicurean is made for big group gatherings. Wood-fired pizzas, generous platters and a buzzing atmosphere make it perfect for Friendsmas celebrations. A local staple where shared dining and great wine do all the work.
7. Montalto Piazza, Red Hill
Set among vines and sculpture gardens, Montalto's Piazza serves casual, seasonal dishes for long outdoor lunches. Surrounded by beautiful grounds, the Piazza offers relaxed dining that still feels special. Sip estate wines, enjoy farm-fresh plates and settle into the perfect Friendsmas afternoon under the sun.
8. St Andrews Beach Brewery, Fingal
Casual, energetic and full of summer spirit, St Andrews Beach Brewery offers surf-meets-brew vibes for your Friendsmas celebration. Enjoy craft beers and hearty pub-style dishes in the beer garden, set around the former horse training track. Perfect for groups who love sunshine, pints and good times.
9. Jetty Road Brewery, Dromana
Bustling and flavour-packed, Jetty Road Brewery is built for big group catch-ups. Expect signature craft beers, live music and share-friendly dishes made to please a crowd. With its fun, upbeat atmosphere, it's a modern classic for a lively, relaxed Friendsmas.
Ready to Plan Your Friendsmas?
Book ahead, organise your favourite people, and get ready to toast to another year of great memories.
Looking for more ways to explore? Find all the information you need here:
Looking for more Mornington Peninsula flavours? Discover food sensations like a local: