Innocent Bystander

Overview

Yarra Valley winemaker Innocent Bystander has thrown open the doors to its new Healesville digs, taking over the lofty space once home to White Rabbit's brewing operations.

The cellar door and winery looks set to hold its own amongst the region's many culinary hot-spots, with plans to showcase the label's own award-winning drops alongside a smorgasbord of other Yarra Valley delights. It's a relaxed space, with lots of natural timber and a plethora of seating options, lending itself to wine-tasting fly-bys and long, lazy lunches alike.

A whopping, 15-metre stone bar boasts copper wine taps and a KeyKeg system, which means you can sample most varietals by the glass, by the share-friendly carafe or as part of a tasting paddle. There's plenty of local love on display, too, with liquid treats from the likes of Hargreaves Hill Brewery, Four Pillars Gin and Allpress Coffee balancing out all that wine.

Meanwhile, an all-day menu is geared for sharing, running from grazing boards and a trio of paella dishes, to classically styled pizzas, fresh from the shiny Marana Forni pizza oven. Large plates might include the likes of a slow-braised brisket, served with roasted mushrooms and a Syrah jus.

Innocent Bystander is open from 12pm to 9pm, seven days a week. Find them at 334 Maroondah Highway, Healesville.