Slow down in the garden
The landscaped garden and pond create a quiet place to catch up with friends, take a break from the road or settle in for a leisurely meal. The chickens, pheasants and children’s playground will keep younger visitors happy.
Why Visit Dark Horse Café?
A peaceful country café on the road to the Yarra Valley
Dark Horse Café, Wine & Produce is in Watsons Creek, the Gateway to the Yarra Valley, between Eltham and Yarra Glen. Visitors come for breakfast, brunch, lunch or afternoon tea, then stay to enjoy the gardens, bushland outlook and relaxed country atmosphere.
Public reviews regularly highlight our welcoming team, generous café favourites, cakes, coffee and exceptionally large vanilla slice. Our menu changes, so please check the current menu before visiting.
Our famous vanilla slice
Our generously sized vanilla slice is one of the café's biggest drawcards and a favourite mentioned by visitors. Discover our vanilla slice and pair it with coffee or tea for a classic country-café stop.
Taste the region
Enjoy café meals alongside local wine and cider, and browse the produce shop for gifts and regional flavours to take home.
Country character
Native birds, rustic details and nature at the doorstep make Dark Horse feel a world away from the city, while remaining an easy drive from Melbourne's north-east.
Good to know
We are at 765 Eltham–Yarra Glen Road, Watsons Creek VIC 3097. Sunday bookings are recommended. For current hours, directions and reservations, visit our contact page.