Review of Bar Merenda restaurant

Updated October 12, 2026,first published November 18, 2024

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The top floor of an 1858 building that was once the Daylesford grocer now brims with 18 happy diners. They climb spiral stairs to reach a mustard-coloured room lined with artwork arranged salon-style, a joyous backdrop for French-leaning menus based on bijou local produce.

The four-course offering is tweaked weekly, but you’ll certainly find charcuterie rendered from pork down the road, and pretty green salad dressed with fine judgement. Otherwise, there could be soup – comforting lentils in adroitly seasoned stock during winter, a bright fish-studded broth with rouille when summer keeps the dining room bathed in golden light until late.

Classic roasts and braises are served for sharing; desserts, however, are not. Co-owner Andy Ainsworth’s wine list happily follows the local, small-batch bias. Warm, meaningful and resonant, this is a place to relax and feel connected.

Good to know: Ground-floor Bar Merenda is walk-ins only and the food is just as good.

Good Food reviews are booked anonymously and paid independently. A restaurant can’t pay for a review or inclusion in the Good Food Guide.

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Dependable Gallic fare in a moody room.

Hitting the sweet spot between rustic and refined.

Groundbreaking sustainability served at no cost to flavour or finesse.