Zonzo Estate Yarra Valley — Restaurant in Melbourne

We recently visited Zonzo as a potential wedding venue. Prior to our visit, we had talked via email and discussed changing out the pizza for an alternate dinner option which to our delight was agreed to. This was a must for us, we do not want pizzas served at our wedding dinner and as discused would not have visited if this wasn't an option. From the moment we entered the gates at Zonzo we were taken back by how beautiful the location is and how pristine the grounds and ceremony areas are, unfortunately that was the highlight of the visit. We were greeted by the host who's opening line was "sorry, so you will have to tell me everything because I couldn't be bothered looking up the email thread". I really wanted to like zonzo and was extremely excited by their venue and the prospect of having a beautiful wedding there, unfortunately the rigidity we experienced showed us that we would be getting a cookie cutter wedding.

Despite swapping pizzas out being prior agreed in writing by another wedding planner, during our visit we were then told "Oh I would have to check that with the manager" and then after a lengthy period we were told via email that we cannot swap out the pizza. Overall, the wedding meeting experience was quite poor.

For such a high quality venue I was surprised to have such an inexperienced wedding planner, or perhaps just one needing some coaching and development on how to run a meeting. It was so scripted, she was reciting word for word telling us about what zonzo weddings offer. When we confirmed we would be having 130 people she kept explaining what would be done to accommodate 150 people. Then I said no we have our numbers and she again had to tell me about 150 people, sticking to the script not listening. Even when we said no we aren't having pizza as already discussed she had to still take us through the pizza details. She also attempted to sell that holding a deposit of thousands of dollars is really great as you don't need to be concerned on your wedding night if there are extra charges and where you would find the money, they will just take it. In summary, without consultation they will have your money to take, like if your guests aren't off the property in 15 minutes. Be sure to read the fine print.

It felt to us like Zonzo have enough interest coming through the door that they didn't care about us having our wedding day there. With so many stunning venues in the Yarra Valley, and several with the same high end feel with more flexibility, 5 star fine dining food, and a dedicated wedding planner to make you feel amazing and with complete trust in executing your day.... it's a no brainer to look elsewhere, and spend your money and special day where they are thrilled to have you, and take you seriously.

While wedding discussions were disappointing we had a great experience with staff in the restaurant and at the cellar door. We were served for lunch by a young teen lady who was fantastic. The man at the cellar door also gave us a great tasting, was friendly, professional and made us feel welcome. The wines are delicious so we bought a bottle and would come...

If you are travelling here just for the food, honestly was a little disappointing. Started off the experience with requesting a change of tables with the staff kindly agreeing to it and ushering me to my new table. We got the Zonzo 'festa' sharing menu which was $60 per pax. This consisted of an antipasti, pizza and main to share. I found out that the main was lamb which my guest could not eat and therefore checked with the waitress if this could be changed, she said it could be changed to a gnocci and it would be arranged for me.

I subsequently waited for 40 minutes for the antipasti to arrive. I only started thinking something was off when other tables who arrived after me received their antipasti while my guest and I still waited. I had to personally approach the staff to ask about my antipasti. They apologised for the mix up and said the kitchen thought the table was cancelled as we had requested to change tables. Okay, benefit of doubt on choice of words but was still rather frustrated at the reason given being us requesting to change tables.

Next issue was seating time. Seating time for each reservation was 2hours as stipulated, I asked about the seating time when they antipasti came and the waitress who served clarified that the seating time could be extended to accommodate for the lateness of the antipasti. However, subsequently the manager came to clarify that the mains were still on time and there was still 35 minutes left on the original seating time. THis was in the context of us packing the pizza away for takeaway prior to this as we already didn't think there was enough time. Not too sure how this helped the issue in any way.

Next issue was mains. The lamb and potatoes main came without the gnocci and portion looked like it was for two. Had to clarify with the waitress that this was a two person portion and that we had previously asked another waitress to request for a switch to the gnocci. The reply we got was that it was not recorded in the system, but they could order it now. Again, blamed pushed to us.

We were offered an extra pizza, or complimentary dessert/drinks if we would like but we declined as the error was already an excess of food and us having to finish our food in a short period of time instead of taking our time to eat it over 2 hours. Can't seem to understand how this was a good solution on their part.

Overall, a rather unpleasant experience. Would not recommend going there. If the food wasn't great, the service may have made up for it but it did not...

As a wedding photographer, I've had the pleasure of capturing countless unforgettable moments at Zonzo Estate. This versatile property, set amid stunning vineyards and rolling hills, offers a unique and tasteful design inspired by the best of Italian cuisine and picturesque landscapes.

Zonzo Estate's lush green lawn extends to the restaurant's outdoor dining area, creating a vibrant atmosphere where guests can smash some arancini and Prosecco while taking selfies with that insane backdrop.

You're covered regardless of the weather with their two fantastic ceremony options: outdoors on the lawn, or in the modern, air-conditioned cappella. Each option boasts breathtaking views that will make your special day truly unforgettable.

Following the ceremony, guests can enjoy Zonzo's famous cuisine while mingling on the lawn. Meanwhile, the happy couple can take advantage of the numerous photo opportunities throughout the property, including vineyards, open fields, tree-lined driveways, and a picturesque spot under festoon lights. The spectacular sunset view near the restaurant is perfect for a quick golden-hour photo session before returning to the festivities.

One of the standout features of Zonzo Estate is the incredible food. Rest assured, no one leaves a Zonzo wedding hungry. In fact, I often advise couples to plan for a day-after feast with their leftovers. The culinary experience begins with seemingly endless canapés, including the most incredible arancini balls, followed by a round of charcuterie and delicious pizzas. And that's all before the main course, featuring generous platters of meat and vegetables.

It's essential to strategise when it comes to enjoying Zonzo's sumptuous offerings. Avoid the rookie mistake of overindulging in pizzas and bread, and save room for the main course, as well as the delectable desserts and optional gelato cart.

Overall, Zonzo Estate is an exceptional choice for couples seeking a versatile venue with impeccable Italian cuisine, breathtaking views, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The numerous ceremony options and photo opportunities, combined with the outstanding food, make this Yarra Valley gem a top choice for your unforgettable...