During this time of year, our calendars are often filled with festive family gatherings or New Year catch-ups with friends, providing the perfect excuse to indulge in Newcastle’s blossoming dining scene.
And, our culinary landscape is as diverse as it is exciting.
Whether you’re a local seeking new flavours or a visitor eager to explore the city’s gastronomic gems for yourself, we’ve got you covered.
From cosy corners serving hearty comfort food to chic establishments pushing the boundaries of culinary innovation, we’ve compiled a list of the best Newcastle restaurants guaranteed to create memorable dining experiences.
Date Night
Blanca
Transport yourself to the sun-kissed shores of Greece and Sicily at Blanca, a ground-breaking Mediterranean haven nestled within Newcastle’s vibrant Honeysuckle precinct. Since opening in December of 2023, the city has been buzzing with excitement over this unique dining experience.
This Newcastle restaurants’ aesthetic charm and lush alfresco dining space is matched only by its culinary brilliance. Every dish, from the wood-fired flatbread and house-made dips to the baked lamb moussaka and grilled king prawns, is reminiscent of a coastal European escape.
The Beach Hotel
The Beach Hotel in Merewether re-opened its doors in late 2023 after an 18-month hiatus. Following an inspired renovation honouring Merewether’s decades of sun, salt and hearty community spirit, the beloved pub now features a revitalised main bar, sun-soaked terrace and new coastal dining experience, Peregrin.
The Beaches features a menu of reimagined pub classics and flame-grilled fare reminiscent of backyard barbeques, all curated with a quintessentially Australian coastal twist. The drinks list sees our city’s laidback beach philosophy taken to the next level, with a dedicated margarita menu, alongside a range of local beers and wines.
Humbug
Representing the best of Newcastle dining right now is Humbug. A food-lovers paradise, Humbug expertly matches bold flavours with a fun line-up of booze. Every detail within this quirky, art-filled space has been carefully considered and brought to life in a fresh and playful way. Do yourself a favour and add it to your Newy itinerary!
Bocados
If authentic Spanish flair and an unparalleled dining experience sounds like a winning combo to you, then head straight to Bocados. A favourite of both locals and visitors, Bocados is arguably Newcastle’s best tapas restaurant. Combining delicious contemporary cuisine with a warm interior setting and lively atmosphere, you can’t help but grab a drink and settle in for the night.
Basement on Market St
For something a little more romantic, try Basement on Market St. The popular Italian eatery is a gem amongst a growing list of Newcastle restaurants, offering a flavour-filled and ever evolving menu. Cosy up in the seductive, sophisticated setting with a cocktail in hand and ready to feast!
Light Years
Delectable Asian cuisine, punchy cocktails, and a tropical-themed party awaits you at Light Years. With a modern twist and undeniable charm, there’s a reason this Newcastle restaurant has quickly become a local icon. What can we say – the vibes are high, and the food is delicious. The Pork Belly Bao Buns and 5 Spice Roasted Duck Pancakes are certainly a must-try.
Splurge
Subo
Driving down Hunter Street, one could easily overlook award-winning and hatted restaurant, Subo. Among Newcastle restaurants, Subo is the cream of the crop. Offering comfortable fine-dining in the heart of the city, it’s a dining experience unlike any other. The warm and intimate space is no fuss with twice a season menu changes and an impressive line-up of Aussie wines. With exposed brick interiors and an authentic edge, this venue is sure to excite any Newcastle local or visitor.
Una Volta
Inspired by a family-run trattoria, Una Volta’s buzzing atmosphere and ever-evolving menu make it a true hidden gem. Boasting Italian foodie goodness, expect dishes packed full of traditional flavours and local produce. Serving a set four-course menu that changes frequently, this is your chance to eat like a local and experience the culture firsthand. One thing’s for sure – Una Volta never fails to delight the taste buds of discerning diners.
Flotilla
Flotilla is a shimmering jewel of culinary delight. A foodie’s dream, this hatted restaurant makes for one special night out. Flotilla’s chefs are intrepid explorers of taste, championing locally sourced produce in just about every dish. The menu is diverse and creative, updated monthly to keep diners on their toes. With a heady aroma of freshly caught treasures and seasonal ingredients that sing with vibrant flavours – be sure to add Flotilla to your list of must-try Newcastle restaurants.
Budget Eats
Antojitos
If it’s Mexican you’re craving, Antojitos is the place to be. This popular LA-style taqueria has grown from a small market stall to a warehouse-sized restaurant, serving up Cali-Mex street food classics to hungry locals. What makes it so good? House-made corn tortillas and fresh veggie salsas, of course! The fuss-free space screams casual dining, making it the perfect spot to have margaritas with friends or order enough food to warrant loosening your belt buckle.
Dumpling Flavour
Nestled among the hustle and bustle of Darby Street is Dumpling Flavour. This refined little eatery offers an array of moreish eats sure to satisfy your cravings. Their dumplings are a harmonious fusion of fillings that dance upon your palate. From watching masterful hands make them at incredible speed, to the sensory explosion experienced upon biting into one – you can’t go wrong with this Newcastle restaurant.
Beach Burrito
Nestled smack bang in the middle of Darby Street, Beach burrito has become a Novocastrians go-to spot for a good time. This Newcastle restaurant offers fresh Californian style Mexican cuisine, paired with super tasty Margaritas.
Whether you grab a seat in the courtyard, spacious indoor booths or under the umbrellas out front, the relaxed vibe, quality food, and impeccable service will have you coming back time and time again.
Smokin Hot n Saucy
Fancy a food truck feast? Experience the allure of Smokin Hot n Saucy, nestled within the charming confines of a retrofitted Salvation Army bus tucked away in Islington. Indulge in finger- lickin’ Texan-style BBQ meats, crispy fries, onion rings, and so much more. Rustic outdoor dining and high-spirited vitality make it a Newcastle restaurant impossible to resist!
Still peckish? For more stories like this:
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
