Nestled in the lush Otways hinterland, just a couple of kilometres from the quaint township of Birregurra, Brae stands as a testament to the harmonious relationship between fine dining and sustainable living.

Led by the visionary chef Dan Hunter, Brae is not merely a restaurant but a unique confluence of organic farming, boutique accommodation, and innovative cuisine. 

For over a decade, Brae has been dedicated to honouring the land on which it resides. This dedication is evident in their approach to food, which is deeply intertwined with the principles of ethical and sustainable production. The result is a dining experience that is as much about the environment as it is about the meal itself. 

At Brae, the menu evolves with the seasons, reflecting the rhythm of the land and the weather. Each day, the team harvests fresh produce from their own organic farm, supplemented by high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients from local growers and producers. This ensures that every dish not only celebrates the local landscape but also respects the meticulous care that goes into its cultivation. The cuisine is a vibrant reflection of Australian flavours, crafted with the utmost respect for both ingredients and suppliers.

Guests at Brae are welcomed into a dining room set amid native gardens and productive farmland, creating an immersive experience that extends beyond the plate. The restaurant’s design encourages diners to connect with the environment, enhancing the pleasure of a meal that is deeply rooted in its surroundings.

Brae’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its kitchen. The six guest suites, designed by Six Degrees Architects, offer a luxurious yet eco-conscious retreat. Each suite is carbon neutral, producing more energy than it consumes through solar power, harvested rainwater, and a worm farm waste-water system. Constructed with recycled materials, these suites feature a king bed with an Australian-made latex mattress, organic cotton bed linen, and a star-gazing skylight. Inside, guests can enjoy Melbourne-made sofas, a curated record collection, a cocktail bar, and a private outdoor area with sweeping views of the Otways’ rolling hills. The attention to detail is further highlighted by original artworks from Australian artist Rhys Lee and handcrafted finishes by Cone11 Ceramics and Emma Hayes Textiles.

Breakfast in the suites is a celebration of local produce, featuring house-made wood-fired sourdough, pastries, preserves, and organic seasonal fruits, alongside St Ali coffee, Harney & Sons teas, and Schulz organic dairy. Checkout is leisurely at 11am, allowing guests ample time to explore the farm. Meandering paths through orchards, olive groves, and vegetable beds invite visitors to connect with the land that sustains Brae’s kitchen. For those curious about the farm’s regenerative practices, dedicated walking paths with interpretative signage offer insights into the sustainable methods employed.

The approach to farming at Brae is both innovative and respectful. By employing regenerative techniques free of pesticides and synthetic inputs, they produce much of the restaurant’s seasonal vegetables, stone fruits, citrus, nuts, berries, olives, honey, and grains. This commitment to regenerative agriculture not only restores the land but also enriches the produce, creating a seamless dialogue between the farm and the kitchen.

Brae’s wine list reflects the same dedication to quality and sustainability. Featuring wines from passionate artisans who honour their land and craft, the selection is both distinguished and evocative of its place of origin. The restaurant also offers a seasonally influenced non-alcoholic pairing option, showcasing botanical-based beverages produced at Brae. This curated selection of drinks ensures that every element of the Brae experience aligns with its values of respect and environmental stewardship.

For those wishing to extend their visit, Brae offers an optional seasonal supper for lunch diners and encourages full immersion in the Brae experience. Whether exploring the scenic landscape, enjoying the luxurious suites, or indulging in the thoughtfully crafted cuisine, guests are invited to connect deeply with the land and the thoughtful practices that define Brae.

Brae is not just a dining destination; it is a celebration of the relationship between food, land, and community. It stands as a model of how sustainability and luxury can coexist, providing an experience that is both memorable and meaningful.