Not as enticing as many of the other towns along Victoria’s coastline, Portland perched on the southwest coast is undeniably a working port town. The site of Victoria’s first permanent European settlement is reminiscent of a British seaside town; cool and blustery with an old fishing port vibe. Port of Call cafe feels like an old- fashioned fish and chip/hamburger place that has been transformed into a cafe with a chippie on the side. It’s quite cavernous inside with long refectory style tables lining the footpath out front. In cooler weather, grab a table in one of the two dining areas or a seat along the window counter for a view of the port. There is a mound of plain and date scones sitting on the counter. I try a plain scone, which is small and a bit dry. I must admit that it is late in the day and perhaps if I were here this morning it may have been a different story. The strawberry jam is ordinary but good enough, and the dollop of double cream is rich and rewarding. Wander about town, as there are some lovely old heritage buildings and remnants of the whaling station it once was.

Scones:  

Jam:

Cream:  

Tea: A basic range of Tea Pigs loose-leaf teas served in a small teapot.

Price: $$

Overall: A great location overlooking the port and the park.

Location: 73 Bentinck St, Portland VIC 3305 Ph: 03 5548 4768 facebook.com

Reviewed in November, 2019