Newcastle & The Hunter is a treasure trove of culinary delights, where striking landscapes meet an abundance of local produce. As you venture through this stunning region, you'll discover an array of dining experiences, each reflecting the vibrant food culture that defines this area. From rustic charm to innovative cuisine, the venues you explore will not only tantalise your taste buds but also create lasting memories. Let’s embark on a journey through some of the finest establishments that encapsulate the essence of Newcastle & The Hunter.
Restaurant Botanica - Pokolbin, NSW
Nestled within Spicers Vineyard Estate along Hermitage Road in Pokolbin, Restaurant Botanica boasts a refined ambience that invites patrons into a world of elegance. The dining area features timber tables and cane wicker chairs, complemented by scallop pendant lighting and expansive glass French doors that invite picturesque vineyard views. Diners here bask in an atmosphere that harmoniously blends contemporary design with nature’s beauty, making it a perfect spot for intimate gatherings or special occasions. What sets this restaurant apart is its commitment to showcasing seasonal produce, with many ingredients sourced directly from their own garden.
Chef-driven dishes are crafted with precision, ensuring that each plate is as delightful to the palate as it is to the eye. Start your culinary journey with tender baby octopus dressed in a piquant chickpea and chilli oil embrace, setting the stage for the main event. The confit chicken, paired beautifully with butternut, ras el hanout, and crème fraiche, highlights the art of combining flavours that resonate with the region. Rounding off your meal with a dessert of smoked smore, miso caramel, and marshmallow is a symphony of sweet and savoury that truly captures the spirit of Modern Australian cuisine. Secure your table today.
Simply D'vine Cafe - Nulkaba, NSW
Simply D'vine Café, located on Wine Country Drive in Nulkaba, is an enchanting retreat where the sweet fragrance of blooms mingles with the sound of trickling water features. This inviting venue combines a rustic aesthetic with modern comforts, showcasing corrugated iron alongside carefully crafted wooden tables and jovial alfresco seating. It’s the ideal spot for soaking in the sun while enjoying a leisurely catch-up with friends over a cup of expertly brewed coffee or a sumptuous lunch. The café’s tranquil atmosphere reflects its commitment to creating a holistic experience for patrons, emphasising slow living and sustainable practices.
The exceptional menu categorically showcases Australian flavours with an adventurous twist. Alongside traditional breakfast offerings, don’t miss the Turkish-style eggs, perfectly balanced with herbed yoghurt, kale, and a dash of chilli oil, making for a mouthwatering start to your day. The lunch menu serves up a satisfying array of dishes, like the vibrant nourish bowl packed with wild rice, sweet potato and kale, demonstrating a commitment to light yet wholesome eating. Alternatively, the chilli prawn tacos boast a creative explosion of taste, topped off with zesty lemon mayo, making them a fan favourite. Plan your visit and revel in the experience.
Wildflame Barbeque and Bar - East Maitland, NSW
Wildflame Barbeque and Bar, perched on Banks Street in East Maitland, marries the primal allure of open-flame cooking with a relaxed dining atmosphere. The venue's rustic charm is palpable from the moment you step inside, with timber fittings, exposed bricks, and the glow of flickering firelight creating a cosy and inviting setting. Here, the olfactory herald of slowly cooked meats drifts through the air, a tantalising promise of the smoky flavours that await. Add to that a selection of inventive cocktails and bold spirits, and you have the perfect recipe for a hearty meal shared with friends or family amid an energetic buzz.
Dishes are unabashedly indulgent, designed to be shared and savoured. Start your evening with the buffalo chicken wings, served with a robust ranch dip that sets the tone for a fire-fuelled feast. For mains, the star turns into the mesquite-smoked beef brisket, accompanied by creamy mac and cheese and a crisp garden salad a celebration of rich, hearty flavour. With a focus on bringing people together over the flames, Wildflame is exemplified by camaraderie, flavour, and a shared love for great food. Book your experience now and delight in the flavours.
NINETEEN - Pokolbin, NSW
Located within The Vintage Estate on Claret Ash Drive in Pokolbin, NINETEEN is where fantastic food, drinks, and ambience unite in a symphony of sophistication. The restaurant presents an inviting atmosphere characterised by polished concrete features and exposed beams, complemented by elegant modern furnishings. Families, couples, and groups alike find solace here, whether for casual dining or celebratory events—all while taking in stunning views over the estate. The dining experience is enhanced further with dishes that reflect both traditional and contemporary culinary approaches, ensuring there’s something enticing for everyone.
Signature offerings include delightful starters like crumbed prawns with a nuanced soy and ginger dipping sauce, paving the way for the noteworthy wood-fired pizzas that are sure to impress. One must try the tandoori chicken topping with red onion, mango chutney, and a touch of creamy yoghurt for a bold flavour explosion. If you lean towards something heartier, the slow-cooked pork ribs featuring smoky BBQ sauce and herbed chips deliver an unforgettable meal. For the sweet-toothed, a display of assorted cakes and pastries beckons, inviting you to indulge your cravings. Reserve your table and indulge in gastronomic bliss.
The Lost Souls - Cooks Hill, NSW
Discover The Lost Souls on Darby Street in Cooks Hill a spirited nook where the energy of Newcastle’s nightlife harmonises with an eclectic menu and impressive drink selection. This venue marries dark, industrial design with a welcoming atmosphere, featuring exposed brick and unique decor that sets a captivating backdrop for either casual outings or special evenings. Here, amidst a backdrop of lively conversation and curated playlists, you'll find elevated takes on classic pub fare that seems to resonate with both locals and visitors alike.
Signature dishes offer an adventurous twist on beloved favourites such as the lamb shank cob loaf, braised in Coopers Pale Ale, which is a hearty choice for those seeking comfort food with character. On the lighter side, char siu pork tenderloin served with silverbeet and pork floss impresses with its complex flavours. Don’t overlook the soft-shell crab bao bun, enhanced by fresh Asian slaw and spicy chilli mayo for an exciting taste sensation. With outstanding options for food and drink and an inspiring atmosphere, The Lost Souls beckons those looking for memorable moments. Join the experience and book your table today.
As the sun sets over Newcastle & The Hunter, these dining venues not only serve remarkable food but also create spaces where community and culture flourish. Each restaurant invites you to explore its unique gastronomic journey, wrapped in the warmth of local hospitality, making every meal a celebration of the region’s vibrant food culture.
