Armageddon Cake

The Verdict

If the end of the world tastes like cake, we say bring it on. Armageddon Cake is one more reason to brave the dead-flat, one-hour drive from Melbourne to Geelong (also known as the worst game of I-Spy ever). It’s the Bellarine’s first and only late-night dessert bar. At 7pm the doors open and locals descend like a pack of sugar-crazed wolves, gobbling up chocolate brownies with butterscotch sauce and sticky date pudding by the handful.

The bar’s become a Geelong cult favourite, mostly because it dishes up Willy Wonka-style confections that are the very definition of OTT. We’re talking Bertie Beetle layered chocolate mousse cake, white chocolate mud made from Milkybars and a Gummy Bear-infused rainbow cake with Italian meringue buttercream. Getting the picture now? There’s also a full drinks menu of shakes, chai lattes and teas by the pot.

Armageddon’s interior is a cross between your Nan’s lounge room and an op-shop: all kooky little pieces (mostly salvaged from Geelong’s epic vintage markets), local artwork, embroidered tablecloths and mismatched chairs. It’s kitschy, but not in an annoying way. Sitting there, spoon in hand, attacking a toffee apple cheesecake and sipping Darjeeling, you can see why the place has become a local favourite. If this opened on Smith St there’d be queues round the corner, but for the moment Armageddon is happy to remain the Bellarine’s most delicious secret. Geelong 1: Melbourne 0.

Image credit: Ben Tyers