Miettas, the highly anticipated fine dining destination at The Queenscliff Hotel, officially opens its doors today, offering an intimate dining experience inspired by Italian tradition and local produce. Miettas also carries a significant legacy, named in honour of Mietta O'Donnell, one of Australia's most celebrated restaurateurs and a previous custodian of The Queenscliff Hotel. 

Led by Executive Chef Salvatore Giorgio, Miettas is set to establish itself as a true destination restaurant, with a refined one-seating-per-service model designed to create a relaxed and elevated experience. Giorgio, former owner and chef of Bar Taralli, has built a strong reputation for honest, flavour-driven cooking grounded in southern Italian tradition. His career includes time in respected kitchens such as Marnong Estate, Scopri, and Bar Bambi, shaping a disciplined and thoughtful approach to both food and leadership.

The menu celebrates the best of the region, with a strong focus on local seafood sourced directly from Queenscliff Pier suppliers, including rock flathead, fresh calamari, and local mussels. Signature dishes include char-grilled octopus with puttanesca salsa, spaghetti alle vongole, and a refined take on tiramisu called “Tazza di caffè” — an edible coffee cup. Premium meats are equally considered, featuring producers such as Mayura Station Wagyu and Gundagai Lamb.

Seasonality plays a central role in menu development, with dishes evolving to reflect produce at its peak while staying deeply connected to the local region. This commitment extends to the wines on offer, which showcases a carefully curated selection of local wines from the Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong region, alongside French and Italian varietals. Highlights include Barolo and Barbaresco, as well as renowned Australian producers such as Penfolds and Mollydooker. Guided by the philosophy “what grows together, goes together,” the list is designed to complement the menu with thoughtful regional pairings.

Opening Date: Saturday, 28 March
Location: 16 Gellibrand Street, Queenscliff VIC