Follow the Jackalope to Victoria

Named after a mythical half-hare, half-antelope creature, Jackalope Hotel has been the talk of the town since opening its designer doors on the Mornington Peninsula earlier this year. Set on the beautiful Willow Creek Vineyard, this boutique hotel’s signature restaurant DootDootDoot (named after the leader of the “flaggerdoot” – a collective noun for a group of jackalopes) offers an intriguing and upscale dining experience that promises to take you down the rabbit hole. Executive chef Guy Stanaway combines classic techniques with seasonal offerings, producing a menu which highlights local Victorian produce sourced from the hotel’s garden and selected producers. Given the property’s strong wine heritage, the relationship between food and wine is central to the experience, and diners can choose from four dishes a-la-carte or an eight-course tasting menu. A giant installation featuring 10,000 light bulbs hangs overhead, adding to the experience. jackalopehotels.com