Named for its heritage as an old stable, this regional restaurant is one of the most sought-after dinner spots in town.

Inside, a monochromatic palette of crisp white tablecloths and painted white brick walls meet sleek black furniture and a concrete floor. But it’s the interior’s frame that warrants a second glance; the original loft-level doors are just a stretch of the neck upwards.

The restaurant is by locals Kim and Mark Ashwood. Kim is from Bairnsdale and has worked as a nurse, hairdresser and in real estate, where she still works, while also keeping The Loft running smoothly at night. The menu features family recipes made from local produce and paired with Gippsland wines.

The late-1800s building once housed the horses of the town men while they swilled beers at the pub next door. It then became a mechanic’s shop, before Pam Williams (now of nearby Tambo Winery) opened a cafe called Larrikins. Her wine is on The Loft’s menu.