Ballarat has racked up dual honours in The Age Good Food Guide 2026.
Two of the city's restaurants were awarded one hat in this edition:
- fine dining experience Babae at Hotel Vera (701 Sturt St)
- 20-seat degustation destination Underbar (3 Doveton St Nth)
Announced on 27 October, The Age Good Food Guide is an annual showcase of Victoria's best cafes, restaurants pubs and bars.
It features almost 500 reviews by the newspaper's top food critics, with chef's hats awarded to over 130 metro and regional venues.
Being awarded a chef's hat signifies that a venue has achieved a minimum score of 15 out of 20.
Babae executive chef and director Tim Foster said their success underscored the growing prominence of regional Victoria on the state's culinary map.
"By paying attention to the smallest service details, preparing our dishes with passion, and cooking with respectful acknowledgement of those who have taught and inspired us, we trust our guests will leave our venues feeling well-loved and cared for," Tim said.
"It is about so much more than food. We offer an approachable, luxurious experience that is warm, charming and genuine."
Underbar owner and chef Derek Boath said he was thrilled to celebrate the restaurant's seventh year in business with another chef’s hat.
"In this year’s tough hospitality environment, we are especially grateful to our guests who keep on coming back to Underbar and enjoying our various seasonal offerings," Derek said.
"This recognition is an incredible achievement for our little team.”
