Discover the best venues for a laid-back catch-up with friends. From woodfired pizza by the sea to Mediterranean feasts in a hidden Sydney gem, these spots combine great food, relaxed vibes and a touch of style.
Pizzami Gourmet Pizza Bar - Peregian Beach, QLD
Set on the sun-drenched corner of Kingfisher Drive and Heron Street, Pizzami Gourmet Pizza Bar is a family-run favourite where locals and beach-hopping visitors mingle over craft drinks and ocean breezes. Light-filled interiors and alfresco seating set the stage for easy afternoons spent catching up over a cold beer or cocktail, the soundtrack being the gentle hum of Peregian Beach life. The focus here is simple—fresh local produce, personable service and the kind of setting that makes time feel like it’s on pause.
While the menu boasts crowd-pleasing pasta plates and
comforting desserts, the star of the show is undoubtedly their inventive pizza
range. Try the New Orleans—a lively combination of Napoletana sauce, Cajun
chicken, onion, capsicum, spicy chorizo, jalapeños, mozzarella, garlic aioli
and a kick of buffalo sauce. It’s a bold, flavour-packed bite that’s perfect
for sharing with friends over a round of drinks.
Reserve your table and make it a pizza night to remember.
Goldfish Hunter Valley - Pokolbin, NSW
Tucked among the rolling vineyards of the Hunter, Goldfish Bar and Restaurant on Broke Road is where refined dining meets vineyard charm. With an atmosphere that suits both celebratory group dinners and long, lazy lunches, it’s a space that feels effortlessly special. High ceilings, earthy tones and vineyard views make it as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
The kitchen delivers a polished Modern Australian menu that
blends familiar comfort with adventurous flavour. Kick off with tender teriyaki
chicken and prawn dumplings draped in ponzu, or opt for the rich and aromatic
spiced lamb served with hummus, pine nuts, parsley and flatbread. Each dish is
crafted for sharing, making it the perfect spot for a group catch-up where
conversation flows as easily as the local wine.
Gather the crew and book in for a Hunter Valley dining escape.
American Hotel - Echuca-Moama, VIC
A heritage icon since 1865, the American Hotel on Hare Street is Echuca-Moama’s oldest pub, standing proudly just a short stroll from the Murray River. This historic beauty wears its age with charm, blending classic brickwork and vintage wine displays with modern hospitality. The rooftop bar and players’ lounge invite you to linger, while the balcony offers a front-row seat to the slow rhythm of the river town.
When it comes to food, Harry O’s BBQ is where smoky,
indulgent flavours shine. Start with juicy pickle-brined chicken wings coated
in smoked buffalo sauce, then share a hearty plate of hot smoked and
wood-grilled prime rib, accompanied by brisket gravy, slaw and chunky fries.
It’s unapologetically big, bold and best enjoyed with good mates.
Book your table and savour a taste of Echuca’s rich history.
Nestled on Buckland Road, Fuel & Co is a leafy urban hideaway where rustic interiors meet relaxed café culture. Recycled timber, black accents and the scent of freshly brewed coffee create a space that’s both stylish and welcoming, perfect for anything from a breakfast date to an afternoon catch-up. Outdoors, the greenery-laden courtyard offers an airy spot to unwind while enjoying the hum of Nundah life.
The all-day menu caters to every mood. Mornings might mean
Boston baked beans with double-smoked speck lardons in a rich tomato and
capsicum sugo, served alongside toasted dukkah bread. Come lunchtime, the
slow-cooked BBQ beef short rib burger steals the show, layered with wombok and
almond slaw and sharp American cheddar. Flavourful, satisfying and ideal for
sharing bites with friends.
Secure a spot and let Fuel & Co set the tone for your next get-together.
Maestria Restaurant & Bar - Rhodes, NSW
Hidden within Rhodes Corporate Park, Maestria Restaurant & Bar is a versatile destination that shifts seamlessly from casual daytime café to ambient evening venue. With warm lighting, modern décor and a spacious layout, it’s well-suited to everything from intimate family dinners to larger social gatherings. The kind of place where you come for the company and stay for just one more round.
The menu leans into vibrant Mediterranean flavours with a
playful edge. Think slow-cooked pulled lamb tacos with cabbage and salsa, or
succulent grilled chicken draped in lemon garlic sauce with shallots, paprika
and rice. For pasta lovers, the mafaldine with blue swimmer crab, garlic,
chilli, lemon zest and cherry tomato is a fresh yet indulgent choice.
Plan your night and experience Maestria’s Mediterranean magic.
Take a moment to escape to the Mediterranean with the stunning venues, no passport required.
