The Range – Curlewis
First JUDGES REPORT FOR 2022
The Range at Curlewis is an impressive golf practice facility and restaurant that impresses visitors of all ages. It is certainly not just for Golf enthusiasts! And there were clear signs that improvements had been made to the venue since my previous visit (pre-Covid). And on a cold winters night the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. We were met with a friendly hello and how can we help you tonight? The fire in the large open fireplace was roaring, the decor with it’s polished concrete floors, high wooden ceilings, and The British Open showing on the TV monitors added to the club like atmosphere. It was entertaining to watch the golfers practice. There are many the different driving ranges and food and drink options to choose from here.
The meet and greet at the Range was bright, cheerful and sustained. We were shown to our table and it was explained how everything operates. When ordering wine at the bar I was asked if I would like to taste the wine selected. Shared plates for the foods were offered and salt and pepper grinders. The wait staff continued to be helpful throughout the night. We ordered the Cauliflower popcorn and Hoisin Bao Buns. Both were served on quality flatware, the cauliflower was perfectly cooked and the flavour was great. For main course I chose a panko chicken burger that was attractively presented. The pork belly main was a very generous serve and the apple slaw, cauliflower puree and pomegranate glaze were a great combination making this a well balanced dish and there was a good range of desserts on display in the refrigerated cabinet. The beverage selection on offer was suted to the style of the venue with a good variety of local beers, ciders and wines. We finished with quality Julius Menil coffee that was well made and served at a perfect temperature – just as I ordered it. The food potions served were generous so after working up an appetite driving golf balls you will not go hungry at the Range.
Street Address: 1201 Bellarine Highway, Curlewis
- Type of Venue: Restaurant – Cafe
- Cuisine: Light Contemporary Australian (Vegetarian and Gluten free available)
- Trading Days and Hours:
- Seven days 11.00 am to 9.00 pm (Lunch and Dinner)
- $-$$
- Visa and Mastercard accepted
- Off-street Parking
- Head Chef: Greg Mendiola
- Front of house Manager: James Baker
- Covid Safe measures in place
Golden Plate Awards in 2021
-
STATE WINNER Exemplar Award for Tourism Excellence
-
STATE FINALIST Best Licensed Cafe
Judges reports for 2022 coming soon
What the Judges said in 2021
Even on a cold winter’s night mid week this remarkable venue was busy. Before entering the main building you see people of all ages having fun. The main building itself is a remarkable design. Polished concrete floors, High ceilings, stylish lighting, and a long bar serving the many guests. There’s a mix of high and low wooden tables with smart chairs and stools. The menu is designed for seated diners and guests using the golf driving bays. Staff were friendly and appeared to know many of the customers. The food was perfect for this venue and mix of patrons with something for everyone. There is a big range of good mostly local beverages including wines, Ciders and beers from it’s sister venues. The Julius Meinl coffee was well made and enjoyable.
Special Strengths in 2021
Impressive views and golfing facilities. Family friendly. Open fire. Good meals and drinks list featuring local produce. Great Salt and Szechuan Pepper Squid Bao Buns, Prawn Linguini, Rocket Pesto and Pork Schnitzel. Food and golf packages. Great fun and good value for money.
