Farmers Lunch – Food and Wine for 2: A Detailed Review of This Mornington Peninsula Gem

If you’re after a laid-back yet authentic taste of Victorian farm life combined with good food and wine, the Farmers Lunch at Green Olive might just be what you’re looking for. Located in the Mornington Peninsula’s Red Hill, this experience is a cozy two-hour outing designed for couples or small groups, with a price of $99 per group—a fair deal considering what’s included.

During this experience, you’ll enjoy two grazing plates inspired by local farm produce, each paired with a choice of estate wines, along with a farm-made dessert and a roasted coffee or loose-leaf tea. It’s all set against the backdrop of vineyards, olive groves, and sweeping farm views, which makes for a peaceful and picturesque escape from city life.

We love that this tour offers a genuine farm experience—not just a sit-down meal but a chance to soak in the sights and sounds of a working farm. The fact that it’s dog-friendly means you can bring your furry friend along, making it a perfect outing for pet owners wanting to combine good food with a bit of country air.

However, one thing to consider is the strict booking times—11:45 am or 2:00 pm—which might not suit those with a flexible schedule. It’s best for visitors who appreciate a relaxed pace and want a taste of farm life paired with quality local food. This experience is particularly suited for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone wanting a peaceful, authentic farm-to-table experience with charming views.

This experience made our article of The 4 Best Lunch Experiences In Main Ridge.

Key Points

Authentic Farm Experience: Designed to showcase local produce and farm-grown ingredients.
All-Inclusive for Two: Includes grazing plates, a glass of wine, dessert, and coffee or tea.
Stunning Views: Overlook vineyards, olive groves, and the farm’s dam, ideal for peaceful reflection.
Dog-Friendly & Child-Friendly: Perfect for pet owners and families wanting a relaxed farm outing.
Limited Group Size: Small group experience ensures a personal and intimate atmosphere.
Great Value: Two hours of delicious food, wine, and scenic views for just $99.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

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Location and Setting

The Green Olive farm is roughly an hour from Melbourne, situated in Victoria’s renowned Mornington Peninsula. The farm spans 27 acres of volcanic soils, offering a rich environment for growing olives, grapes, herbs, veggies, and even hops. From the moment we arrive, the views of the vineyard and the surrounding landscape set a calming tone. You’ll find the farm bustling with activity—sheep grazing, ducks paddling on the dam, and bees buzzing around the kitchen garden.

This farm isn’t just a pretty backdrop; it’s a place where ingredients are cultivated on-site, which means the grazing plates are truly farm-fresh. The rustic farm buildings and open seating make you feel like you’re dining in someone’s backyard—albeit a very scenic one.

The Food and Wine

The highlight of the experience is the grazing plates. You’ll choose two from a selection inspired by farm produce, which could include cheeses, cured meats, fresh veggies, or dips—all served in a relaxed, tapas-style presentation. We loved the thoughtful pairing with estate wines, which added a layer of depth to the flavors. It’s a casual, shareable format that makes it easy to talk and enjoy with your companion.

Each person receives a dessert of their choice, which could be something like a slice of cake or a farm-made treat—something that hints at the farm’s rustic charm. The farmed coffee or loose leaf tea adds a comforting finish, perfect for relaxing as you overlook the farm.

Experience and Atmosphere

Visitors describe the experience as “idyllic,” with the views of the pond and vineyards being a particular highlight. Rebecca from the UK noted, “It was very unique to sit amongst the foods we were eating,” emphasizing the sense of connection to the farm.

The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere have earned praise, with reviews mentioning “helpful” and “very friendly” service. The small group size keeps the experience intimate, allowing for personal attention and relaxed conversation.

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The Details That Matter

Duration: Two hours is enough time to enjoy the grazing plates without feeling rushed.
Timing: Offered in the morning and afternoon, but the strict 11:45 am or 2:00 pm booking times mean planning ahead.
Accessibility: Wheelchair friendly, making it accessible for most guests.
Cost: At $99, the experience offers good value, especially considering the quality of food, wine, and farm views.

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Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is the fixed times—if you’re not an early riser or can’t make the afternoon slot, this might not fit your schedule. Also, since it’s small-scale and focused on the farm experience, those looking for a larger, more commercial winery tour may feel it’s a bit quaint.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour appeals most to couples or small groups seeking a peaceful, authentic farm experience with excellent local produce and wine. It’s ideal for food lovers, especially those who appreciate farm-to-table concepts. Pet owners will value the dog-friendly environment.

If you’re after a relaxing break from busy sightseeing and want to enjoy the natural beauty of Victoria’s wine country, this is a genuine way to do it. Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a scenic, slow-paced lunch in the country.

Final Thoughts on Value and Experience

The Farmers Lunch at Green Olive offers more than just a meal; it’s a chance to step into the world of Victorian farm life while indulging in tasty, locally-sourced food and wine. The setting alone—overlooking vineyards, olive groves, and a tranquil farm dam—makes it worth the trip.

The two-hour duration strikes a good balance: enough time to savor the food and the view without feeling overwhelmed. The small group size and personal touch make it feel like a private experience, while the all-inclusive package makes budgeting straightforward.

This experience is best suited for anyone craving a relaxed, authentic farm outing that combines good food, wine, and scenery. If you’re traveling with a pet or small kids, you’ll appreciate the dog- and child-friendly vibe.

While it’s not a large-scale winery tour or a high-end gourmet experience, it shines in its simplicity, authenticity, and warm atmosphere. It’s a genuine taste of the Mornington Peninsula’s farm-fresh offerings, served up with a generous glass of estate wine and a view to match.

FAQ

How long does the Farmers Lunch last?
It lasts approximately two hours, allowing enough time to enjoy the grazing plates, drinks, and views at a relaxed pace.

What are the booking times?
You need to choose between two times: 11:45 am or 2:00 pm. Be sure to plan accordingly.

Is this experience suitable for children and pets?
Yes, the farm is child-friendly and dog-friendly, making it an excellent option for families or pet owners.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers two grazing plates, a glass of wine, beer, or cider per person, a farm-made dessert for each, and coffee or tea.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where is the farm located?
It’s about an hour from Melbourne, situated in Red Hill on the Mornington Peninsula.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair-friendly.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Specific dietary needs aren’t mentioned, but since the menu features farm produce, it’s advisable to check locally or with the operator ahead of booking if you have special dietary requirements.

In all, this experience offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, farm-fresh food, and local wines—all in a relaxed, intimate setting. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply want to enjoy a quiet country lunch, Green Olive’s Farmers Lunch is a genuine slice of Victorian farm life you won’t forget.