Hats off to Warragul restaurants

Two Warragul restaurants have been again recognised among Victoria's best, with Hogget Kitchen and Messmates Dining each retaining a chef's hat in The Age Good Food Guide 2027.
The two restaurants were among 147 Victorian establishments awarded hats in the annual guide, which recognises excellence in food, service and the overall dining experience.
Hogget Kitchen, led by owner and head chef Trevor Perkins, has maintained an uninterrupted run of chef's hats since 2019.
The restaurant opened in 2017 and has built its reputation around seasonal produce, locally sourced ingredients and close relationships with Gippsland farmers and producers.
Mr Perkins said the continued recognition was something the entire team took pride in. "It's a huge accolade – we are very proud," he said. "To hold on to the hat for so long has been great."
Mr Perkins and his team make the most of the ingredients they use, including preparing and butchering meat in-house.
The kitchen also undertakes its own smoking, curing, pickling and preserving, with an emphasis on traditional techniques and making the most of seasonal ingredients.
Hogget's menu changes according to the availability of produce, reflecting Mr Perkins' commitment to supporting local growers and showcasing the region's food.

Mr Perkins also welcomed the continued success of fellow Warragul restaurant Messmates Dining.
"With Messmates also getting hats the last few years, it's great for the area," he said.
"While we do different things, we have similar values and we will dine at their restaurant and they will come to ours as well."
Messmates Dining also retained its chef's hat, adding to an impressive list of achievements since opening in 2023.
The restaurant is operated by siblings Chris and Jodie Odrowaz and their respective partners, Jess Odrowaz and Michael Clark.
Its menu also places a strong emphasis on seasonal Gippsland produce, complemented by a wine list featuring local and international producers.
The restaurant received its first chef's hat shortly after opening and was subsequently named regional restaurant of the year in the 2025 awards.
Mr Odrowaz said retaining the hat was a welcome acknowledgement of the restaurant's continued efforts.
"It's good to know we have kept our standard. While it is not what we are in it for, it is nice to be recognised," he said.
Mr Odrowaz also returned the compliment to Mr Perkins and his team at Hogget Kitchen.
"We really pay respect to what Trevor and his team do and how they have kept their hat for so long," he said.
Mr Odrawaz acknowledged the support of the local community and said the restaurant would continue looking for ways to offer customers something new.
"We are grateful for our local customers and while we want to concentrate on maintaining our standard, we want to always do something a bit different to keep it interesting," he said.