Peasant Osteria

Judges’ comments 2026:

This is a new incarnation for Peasant, and it is Peasant Osteria at the Mercure Hotel. All of the previous strengths have been carried forward, and Doug Kerr’s skill with food and flavours shine through from the menu. This time the menu is centred around seasonal Southern Italian food- Sicilian and Calabrian, and it is lovely to see some traditionally inspired dishes with flavours and techniques that shout out their Italian heritage. The produce is high quality, and sourced locally. We loved our meal.

The wine list is also Italian inspired, with Dan Tesoriero’s passion for wine evident in the pages. I would recommend exploring the wine list, and trying some of the Italian wines. There are quite a few by the glass, and I really enjoyed my glass of Seghesio Dolcetto d’Alba. There are some locals as well, with the Byrne Pinot Noir from Ballarat being equally as smooth and delicious.

With high quality Italian food and wine, and a warm elegant dining room, Peasant brings a taste of Italian hospitality to Ballarat.