So, you're heading out to explore Ballarat's outstanding Sovereign Hill, a remarkable replicated goldfields town complete with shops, hotels, schools, factories, a theatre, gold diggings and underground mines to explore.
At Sovereign Hill, you'll be experiencing a glimpse of what life was like for miners living and working during the Victorian gold rush! But does that mean you'll be eating like them too...?
During the early gold rushes, mutton and damper was basically all that was available for the miners to eat! This was supplied from the nearby sheep stations which, prior to the mad onset of the gold rush, had been the main producers of the region.
Fortunately you'll be a little more spoiled for choice when looking for places to eat at Sovereign Hill! Take a look through the following list of dining options to help plan your trip.
New York Bakery
The gorgeous New York Bakery is a spacious Victorian-style dining room, complemented by a charming wooden bar and period-themed decor.
This is a fantastic dine-in option at Sovereign Hill, offering a varied menu complete with daily specials.
It must be mentioned that the waffles served at the New York Bakery are unmissable, so make sure you save room for dessert!
Hope Bakery
If you're planning a trip to Sovereign Hill, you've simply got to try one of Hope Bakery's famous pies, pasties and treats, baked fresh in a traditional wood-fired oven!
This is a great take-away option at Sovereign Hill, so indulge in some baked goodies and take them down to Sovereign Hill's ornamental lake, where you can dine at a picnic table with a scenic view!
Sovereign Hill Cafe
This modern cafe at Sovereign Hill serves a wide variety of both hot and cold food, ice creams and drinks. The cafe features a spacious indoor dining area complete with a bar, plus tables on the deck outdoors overlooking the adventure playground.
This is a great option to bring the family to grab a bite to eat, where the children can then explore the brilliant play space.
Confectionery Store
No visit to Sovereign Hill is complete without a sample of their famous Raspberry Drops! Stop by the charming little Confectionery Store along Main Street and try some of Sovereign Hill's famous boiled lollies!
You can even head over to the confectionery making demonstrations to see how these delicious treats are made, right here at Sovereign Hill.
United States Hotel Bar
The gorgeous United States Hotel offers light refreshments along with hot and cold drinks, served from a stunning solid timber bar complete with original Victorian fittings!
You can even sample a splash of Sovereign Hill's famous Sly Grog, Gin of the Goldfields!
Developed by Sovereign Hill in partnership with Kilderkin distillery, "The best grog in Ballarat" is served at the United States Hotel and is also available to purchase by the bottle.