Nestled within the picturesque Macedon Ranges in Victoria, Clarkefield boasts a thriving food and drink scene catering to both visitors and locals. Inns and hotels along the northwest road from Melbourne to Mount Alexander historically provided sustenance and rest for travellers, often situated near water sources with stables for coach staging. Early structures were primarily made of slab and canvas, with notable examples like the Bush Inn from 1840, Glen Dhu Inn opened in 1841, Carlsruhe Inn by 1844, and a hotel in the Gisborne area in 1847.
With the influx of people during the gold rush, new inns swiftly emerged to cater to the rising demand. English's Inn at Middle Creek (Macedon) served gold seekers on the Mount Alexander Road, alongside licensed hotels and canvas 'coffee tents' offering diverse options for travelers. As time passed, hotels evolved into more substantial double-storey stone buildings by the late 1850s. Examples include the Clarkefield Hotel near the railway station constructed in 1873, the Post Office Inn in Romsey, and the Junction Hotel in Malmsbury built in 1872, serving as both accommodations and gathering spots.
Clarkefield's rich agricultural heritage contributes to its vibrant food scene, with vineyards and farms supplying fresh, locally sourced ingredients to the area's numerous restaurants and cafes. Visitors can relish artisan breads using specially developed Rottnest yeast, freshly squeezed juices, homemade muffins, huevos rancheros, gluten-free options, and up to 100 different flavors of ice cream crafted from local produce. The diversity in offerings within Clarkefield ensures that every visitor can explore and indulge in options tailored to their tastes and preferences.