1915 is the perfect winter dining destination

Head Chef Damian makes sure the menu transitions through season to showcase the region, and the precincts best.

When Federal Mills opened its doors, a ripple of excitement spread across the north of Geelong. At last, the region had a dining destination to rival the city’s finest. Among its shining stars, 1915 emerged not just as a restaurant but as a statement. It embodies heritage meeting contemporary sophistication, a space where history is celebrated while alive with modern energy.

1915

Where: Federal Mills, 33 Mackay Street, North Geelong

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Housed in a century-old boiler house that once powered the entire Mill, 1915 has been reborn with elegance and purpose. The raw brick walls, soaring ceilings, and aged timber speak of a time gone by, yet the venue pulses with contemporary vibrancy. It welcomes both intimate dinners and grand celebrations, with multi-level open-plan spaces perfectly suited to long lunches, cosy dinners, weddings, or cocktail events for up to 500 guests.

The culinary philosophy at 1915 reflects its design. The menu celebrates local provenance and seasonal abundance while championing the best of the Federal Mill precinct. Paddock Bakery’s focaccia and Anther Distillery’s award-winning spirits feature throughout, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the neighbourhood. Diners may choose from an extensive à la carte menu featuring Madras coconut prawns, woodfired chargrill chicken, house-made gnocchi, or the Portarlington mussels. For those who wish to surrender to the experience, the ‘Feed Me’ option offers a 2, 3, or 4-course feast of shared seasonal plates.

The menu is a carefully curated journey through Geelong’s freshest ingredients. Small plates include charcuterie, New England prawn rolls on Paddock Bakery brioche, and vibrant vegetarian options such as halloumi with chilli-lime honey glaze and Mediterranean beetroot salad. Large plates showcase locally sourced gems including Otway Pork, woodfired chicken, seared sesame tuna sashimi, and Barramundi ceviche with lemongrass coconut cream. Weekly specials reflect the season and the chef’s creativity, while dietaries are thoughtfully catered for with attentive service. There’s also a generous kids menu for the little diners as well, making the space a family affair.

Beverages are treated with equal care. The sommelier’s curated wine list leans towards boutique local wineries while also featuring bottles from renowned regions around the world. The cocktail menu dazzles with inventive creations, including the Powerhouse Spritz featuring Anther gin and the signature White Choc Passionfruit Martini. Beer lovers can enjoy both local craft beers and familiar favourites, including the in-house brew ‘Liquid Gold’.

 

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1915 ensures that every dish, every cocktail, and every corner of the space tells the story of Geelong’s north. The result is an experience that is rich, inviting, and utterly unforgettable.

Book a table here.