Everything about this place was fantastic! Hubby & I have eaten at some of the best restaurants in Victoria but not enjoyed a meal as much as this. I can't contain my excitement over this place, because everything about it is so unpretentious, with great wholesome, comforting food. I think our experience was heightened by the awesome service, & the kitschy, quirky decor; & to further excite me, my chowder was served on this daggy plate, that took me back to my (wonderful) childhood, 'cause my Mum had the exact same set.

I had prawn chowder, which was SUPERB, with those sweet, perfectly cooked prawns in that velvety, creamy broth, & Hubby had the sensational Manhatten seafood chowder...(better than any bouillabaise I've ever had), which is in a tomato based broth. Both were absolutely faultlesst!
Now that all important cornbread; what can I say? More of a griddle cake, I'd say, & cooked to order; it was SO damn good I had to have a second piece.
What a revelation this place is. I'd happily drive the 150km again just to have a bowl of goodness & a dash of that wonderful service. Hats off to Shane & staff, they're lovely, lovely people :)

Approximate cost: $15? (didn't actually look, sorry)

I enjoyed the food here. But a couple of things marred my experience. It was late afternoon and we weren't very hungry so we wanted to share a bowl of chowder. We were explicitly told this was not allowed as we were taking advantage of small businesses????? huh???? In the end we had to order 2 half serves (which was $30) which came with foccacia or corn bread. We weren't asked which option we wanted an were brought focaccia. I changed my order to corn bread and asked them to take away the other bread. But we were charged for the corn bread. A disapointing experience. I probably wouldn't return and will make my own chowder!

Approximate cost: $15

Nestled in the sleepy hamlet of Hepburn Springs with a kitsch (in a nice way) collection of chairs, tables and knick-knacks is the best chowder house outside of Boston.

Approximate cost: $12.00

He who must be loved (my husband) and I have had many a chowder at this cafe. Food (chowder and corn bread) is spectacular. I have never tasted so many complex elements in such a simple dish. Shane has a creative magician's touch. And if you are real good he will 'spritz' you in front of the air conditioner when the outside temperature reaches 40 degrees! Gary and Shane and the staff are to be complimented for the great food and excellent swift friendly service. This experience should not be missed.

Approximate cost: $18.00

Drove to Hepburn Springs for a look around and saw the "Chowder House" sign from across the road. As chowder is my favorite of all things I had to check it out. The food was fantastic and lots of it, the service was fast, funny and friendly and the value was sensational. My dear wife who would rather eat her arm than a bowl of chowder was extremely happy with a medley of 3 fresh salads. We are heading back to Hepburn Springs from Melbourne specifically to have more of their chowder (and salads)

This is a buzzy and funky cafe open for breakfasts and lunch on the main strip in Hepburn Springs. The service is very friendly and the menu quite diverse and interesting.

Approximate cost: $15

Hepburn Springs is a lovely part of the world, but what makes the experience that much more special is being able to have a bite at the Chowder House. Probably the most popular place in town and recommended by all the locals, the boys at the Chowder House serve up giant sized and delicious creations of what can only be classified as home cooked American fare.
Obviously, the thing to go for is the chower, and there is plenty of variety including daily specials. Everything from your traditional corn and clam chowder, to seafood, fish and even chicken (from memory). For the non-chowder fans, there is a great deal of other things on offer, including huge breakfasts American-style, and plenty of tasty cakes and muffins.
The service is warm and friendly - and people drive all the way in from Melbourne just to enjoy what's on offer.
Make sure your trip to Daylesford and Hepburn Springs includes a stop off here (or just do what everyone else does and drive up for the day just to have some chowder!).

Approximate cost: $17