Once upon a Broome time, the pearling industry put this remote coastal town on the map. Today, Broome’s multi-culturalism connects with its Asian neighbours, evident through its rich history and contemporary cuisine. Ruled by its tropical climate and tides, many of Broome’s attractions adhere to the gravitational pull drawing visitors far and wide, not to mention the short flight from Perth keeps it a local favourite. No matter what time of the year you visit, the landscape always thrills and here is our round-up of things to do in Broome, the iconic coastal town in the Kimberley.

Shinju Matsuri – Festival of the Pearl

2023 applauds the biggest Shinju Matsuri festival yet, with a fortnight of culinary and cultural events celebrating the exquisite pearls of the region. The Dahlia Designs Shinju Opening Ball held in the new Shinju Matsuri Festival Hub by Spinifex Brewing Co. sets the tone for festivities ahead. The Sunset Long Table Dinner is one of the most epic long table events in the state, where diners are treated to a specially curated menu designed by chef Khanh Ong beneath the stars on Cable Beach. Make sure you add the Chinatown Fest, Jetty Gala and Floating Lantern events to your dance card. Running from 26 August to 10 September, you’ll need to book your accommodation and flights soon for this incredible pearl festival unique to Western Australia.

Visit a pearl farm

As far back as the early 1900s, legends about Broome’s lustrous pearls spread to the Far East, attracting pearl farmers from as far away as Japan, even though they already had a thriving pearling industry. With annual temperatures and sheltered bays attributing to the quality of the precious South Sea Pearls of the region, visitors are welcome to delve into the industry with a visit to a pearl farm or jewellery showrooms glittering with precious keepsakes in Chinatown.

After a visit to a pearl farm, you’ll gain an insight into the workings of pearling industry and discover the five virtues of a pearl: size, shape, colour, surface and lastly, lustre, which many believe is the most important.

Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm is located on the Dampier Peninsula, approximately 200km from Broome. What sets Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm apart is its research and development into cutting-edge science at a genetic level. Owned and run by the Brown Family, with over 70 years of pearling experience, they’re considered the pioneers of pearling. While here, take a pearl farm tour, sea safari, cultural tour, sample pearl meat at the restaurant, stay overnight and indulge at their showroom. To reach Cygnet Bay, take the sealed Cape Leveque Road or a flight with Air Kimberley.

Willie Creek Pearl Farm is 38km from Broome and well worth a visit to delve into the pearling industry with a tour of the farm, pearl experiences (such as harvesting your own pearl) or a scenic helicopter tour. Their showroom has a wide range of pearls and jewellery for sale.

Cygnet Bay and Willie Creek also have showrooms in Broome and Perth, and you can purchase their pearls in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

Visit Broome’s markets

Every weekend from April until October, the Broome Courthouse Markets offer over 100 stalls selling locally-produced art, fashion, jewellery and food. With stalls interspersed between boab trees, the markets have been operating for over 25 years and have grown into a major tourist attraction during Broome’s dry season. The Staircase to the Moon Night Markets are rapidly becoming just as famous and run from April to November on full moon nights and Thursday nights at the Town Beach precinct from June to September showcasing local products, crafts and food.

Take a sunset cruise

For a spectacular perspective of Broome, a cruise at sunset bathes the coast in gold and captures all the romance of a bygone era aboard a pearl lugger with Willie Pearl Cruises. Sea West has partnered with Cygnet Bay Pearls, where you’ll experience a first-hand pearl harvest and sea-to-plate epicurean feast. Broome Cruises also offers a Sunset, Seafood and Pearling Cruise with a seven-course menu showcasing the region’s seafood and produce, compliments of the executive chef Tony Howell.

Spectacular beaches

Broome is famous for its beaches; you can’t miss Cable Beach at sunset. It’s one of the few beaches patrolled by surf lifesavers and is safe for swimming – unless the beach is closed due to a rare crocodile sighting. While here, partake in one of the most iconic Broome experiences with a camel ride, ideally at sunset. Town Beach is also safe for swimming in the vibrant turquoise water that pops against the pink sand in true Kimberley fashion. If you’re wondering where much of that drone footage with the orange sand is shot, it’s probably over Roebuck Bay, where you’ll see turtles, dolphins and dinosaur footprints, especially if you take a boat tour with Dinosaur Adventures. The unusual rock formations at Entrance Point have created one of the most spectacular beaches, and it’s easy to see why this spot is so famous for photography and weddings.

Gantheaume Point

Turquoise and red pindan hues are ever present in the Kimberley, often inspiring works of art depicting the landscape. Gantheaume Point is a prime example of this colour palette and is also the site of Broome’s first spa named Anastasia’s Pool, where the high tides create a whirlpool effect in the carved-out rock. If you visit during low tide, check out the ancient dinosaur footprint, one of the many scattered along Broome’s 80 km coastline visible from Gantheaume Point’s red cliffs, including the iconic Cable Beach.

Horizontal Falls

Located within 1000 islands of the Buccaneer Archipelago in Talbot Bay, the Horizontal Falls are best viewed from above on a scenic flight. But then you’d miss feeling the wild spray on your face as you speed through the twin peaks on a cruise between the McLarty Ranges, where two ridges run parallel about 300 metres apart, with the most seaward gap about 20 metres wide and the even more spectacular 10 metre-wide gap revs up the thrill factor. This natural wonder causes seawater to build up faster on one side of the channel, and as it becomes trapped, it’s pushed out horizontally into a waterfall. As the tide changes, so does the direction causing a whirlpool effect, and it’s another example of Broome living by its tides and the 10-metre differences between low and high tide. There are several tour operators offering a range of ways to enjoy the Hairy Horries, the affectionate nickname for this natural phenomenon, including Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures and Kimberley Boat Cruises.

Chinatown

Remnants of Broome’s colourful past are still evident in Chinatown, particularly with its original tin buildings, a material favoured for its availability, cyclone rating and ease of transportation in the late 1880s. One prime example is the iconic Sun Pictures building on Carnarvon Street, constructed at the turn of the century. Originally owned by the Yamasaki family, it was a Japanese emporium and then a playhouse before it was sold and converted into an outdoor theatre. In keeping with its heritage, the red carpet on opening nights is often replaced with the red soil of Kimberley. Today, Chinatown’s streets are lined with pearl and jewellery showrooms, boutiques, galleries and cafes. While in town, stroll along the revamped Streeter’s Jetty, once lined with wooden pearling luggers bobbing among the mangroves for two kilometres to Town Beach.

Staircase to the Moon

Witnessing the Staircase to the Moon is an unforgettable natural marvel worth making the journey to Broome alone. The full moon rises over the exposed tidal flats of Roebuck Bay two to three days a month between March and October and is best witnessed from Town Beach or the Mangrove Hotel Resort, where you can enjoy the spectacle over dinner and a bevy or two. For Staircase to the Moon dates, please click here.

For more destination guides and local travel inspiration, head to Sitchu.

Broome may be known for its impressive sunsets and jaw-droppingly beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to some seriously sensational eateries.

At the top-end of WA, where the red pindan of the Kimberley meets world-famous crystal-clear ocean blues, laid-back Broome beckons with its impressive natural beauty, year-round sunshine and those irresistible tropical holiday vibes.

Whether you’re looking for a great restaurant for a special dinner, a low-key coffee spot, or somewhere to grab a delicious takeaway, recent years have upped the ante for the Broome foodie scene and there’s a lot to love.

The Aarli

One of Broome’s OG restaurant standouts, The Aarli combines its tropical surroundings with a contemporary modern-Australian menu that celebrates the best of Asian cuisine. From perfectly grilled roti bread to mouthwatering pork belly, this Chinatown gem is a favourite among locals and visitors alike. The relaxed atmosphere and inviting terrace make it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

2/6 Hamersley Street, Broome

Matso’s Brewery

In the heart of Broome, this vibrant micro-brewery is not just a place to grab a drink, it’s an iconic,  must-visit destination that offers a uniquely Broome experience. Come for a pint of their famous ginger beer and stay for lunch or dinner on the verandah, taking in the beautiful views of Roebuck Bay.

60 Hamersley Street, Broome

Bali Hai Cafe

The welcoming and casual atmosphere of this newish Broome hotspot invites you to feel at home as you lean into those magical tropical holiday vibes. Relax on the alfresco deck area, order a drink and prepare to explore the mouthwatering Asian-inspired menu. Check out the popular Chinese dumplings entree; pork or veggie dumplings served with asian greens, coriander and chilli.

6 Murray Road, Cable Beach

Zookeepers

Located on the stunning Cable Beach, Zookeepers has established itself as the go-to casual and cool dining destination in Broome. Choose from one of Broome’s best beer selections, or sip on a delicious cocktail as you bask in those mellow vibes and watch the camels stride past on the beach. This gem also boasts an impressive menu serving elevated food made with the area’s best ingredients.

2 Challenor Drive, Cable Beach

Good Cartel

People flock to this little hidden treasure for some of the best coffee going round in Broome. As well as your coffee hit, you’ll want to head to this drive-through restaurant (you can also pull up a seat outside) for an epic steak sandwich, killer burgers, smoothies and some super fresh sushi bowls. The queue of cars is non-stop most of the time, but it is such a vibe.

3 Weld Street, Djugun

Short St Cafe

Grab your freshly-baked treats, delicious rolls and excellent coffee from Chinatown’s Short St, a relatively new kid on the block in Broome but a fast-favourite among locals and visitors alike. When you’re in Broome, this is one cafe you absolutely need to hit up. Pair your coffee order with a loaded conti roll and you’ll be wishing it was your local.

Short Street & Carnarvon Street, Broome

The Food Lab

If you’re craving some comforting Italian takeaway in Broome, The Food Lab has you covered. A menu of fluffy, woodfired pizzas (crafted with their own mother yeast) and some seriously good pastas that are as authentic as it gets (think homemade mince and ricotta meatballs, slow-cooked ragu and garlic marinated prawns) – everything to come out of this slice of Italy is like a big hug.

Unit 2a/63 Robinson St, Broome

The Bay Club at Mangrove Hotel

The view here is next level. Grab a cocktail, maybe a cabana, and enjoy the panoramic beach views of Roebuck Bay in a chilled-yet-vibey atmosphere that feels like a Bali beach club. Graze on delicious share plates and pizzas (they also do more substantial mains), listen to live music and soak up the vibes in the tropical sunshine.

The Mangrove Hotel, 47 Carnarvon Street, Broome

From the first sip to the final bite, Broome welcomes you with open arms, local flavours and some serious culinary talent. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these cafes and restaurants will be sure to hit the spot.

For more destination guides and local travel inspiration, head to Sitchu.

We round up the best restaurants in Mooloolaba for delicious dining with a view.

A laid-back beach holiday is a rite of passage for any Aussie and if you’re keen to explore somewhere new, may we kindly suggest checking out Marcoola?

Marcoola is a charming seaside village located on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland, just north of the Maroochy River and perhaps the area’s best-kept secret. And while it might not be on your radar just yet, it soon will be! This hidden gem offers a peaceful and relaxed atmosphere without any overwhelming crowds, making it the ultimate destination for your next escape.

The main attraction in Marcoola is undoubtedly its stunning beach. This unspoiled, uncrowded beach is one of the most beautiful on the Sunshine Coast. If you can peel yourself away from the ocean, Marcoola also has a small but vibrant town centre that has a range of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops. Keep scrolling as we round up all the best things to do in Marcoola and just try and stop yourself from booking a holiday here after reading this!

Things to do in Marcoola: explore

Whatever you’re in the mood for – be it lazy days at the beach, more ambitious day trips, or perusing the local shops and markets, Marcoola may be small but there is so much to explore! 

Beach hop

Marcoola is known for its beautiful beaches, with crystal clear waters and pristine sand galore, you can spend hours everyday beach hopping from one breathtaking beach to the next! A few of our top picks include Marcoola Beach and nearby Coolum Beach and Mudjimba Beach (pro tip: you can go snorkelling with turtles here).

Explore the local shopping scene

Marcoola has a number of amazing local markets that offer a range of fresh produce, arts, and crafts. The Marcoola Twilight Markets are held every Friday from 4pm til 8pm where you can chow down on everything from dumplings, doughnuts, German hotdogs, and tacos right by the beach. Meanwhile, on Saturdays between 8am to 12pm, stock up on the area’s best and freshest produce at the Farmer’s Markets. 

In the main drag of town, you’ll find a great offering of stores including gift shops, surf shops and cute boutiques. Happy shopping!

Take it all in from above

For the more adventurous traveller, why not book an aerial tour through Paradise Seaplanes? Take in all the stunning sights of the Sunshine Coast, from the beautiful national parks, nearby Noosa to Double Island Point to the north, the Glass House Mountains and Pumicestone Passage at Bribie Island in the south.

From $125
Riverside, 142 Bradman Avenue, Maroochydore

Plan a day trip

One of the best things about Marcoola is just how close it is to so many exciting tourist attractions. For animal lovers, Australia Zoo is just a 30-minute drive away, while Sealife is only 20 minutes. Meanwhile, you could also pop into many of the other lush nearby towns like Noosa, Mount Coolum or Maroochydore. 

Things to do in Marcoola: eat & drink

Sole Restaurant

It’s not a beach holiday until there’s fish and chips and for the best offering in town, Sole has got it sorted. Dine in and work your way through their extensive menu featuring taramasalata, freshly shucked oysters, salt and pepper squid and of course the fish and chips. Or if you’d prefer, you can get takeaway and enjoy it proper beach holiday style on the sand as you watch the waves crash and swell in front of you. 

Off Tap Tapas

For good vibes and even better tapas, this is your joint! Menu standouts include patatas bravas, chorizo al vino, grilled prawns, and Spanish meatballs. Another win? There are loads of vegan and veg options too. 

914 David Low Way, Marcoola

Cuba St. Roasters

For the best coffee in town, look no further than Cuba St. Roasters. These guys take their coffee very seriously and roast their own blend in-house. Grab your mug of Joe and a fresh pastry, muffin, cake or bacon and egg roll while you’re at it. 

Surfair Beach Hotel

If you’re wondering where the best pub in Marcoola is look no further than the Surfair Beach Hotel. Situated right in front of the Pacific Ocean, you can kick back by the open-air cocktail by poolside as you soak up the sun and salty sea breeze. 

923 David Low Way, Marcoola

Bulli 

What goes perfectly with a beach holiday? A big slice of delicious pizza of course – and local joint Bulli has been dubbed the best pizza on the Sunshine Coast. They’re also open for breakfast, serving up pesto scrambled eggs, Spanish tortillas and toasted muesli. 

1 Lorraine Avenue, Marcoola

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With its stunning beaches, vibrant local community, and laid-back village vibe, it comes as no surprise that holidaymakers flock to Coolum Beach to relax and soak up the sun.

But what makes this sleepy surfer’s paradise even more appealing is its vibrant food scene, brimming with exciting eateries serving up delicious food and unforgettable dining experiences.

Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to try or a tourist seeking a taste of the area, these are the best restaurants in Coolum Beach that are well worth a visit.

Yiani’s Greek Restaurant

Experience a taste of the Aegean at Yiani’s Greek Restaurant. Adored as much for its lively atmosphere and impeccable service as its sumptuous fare, this Hellenic hideaway serves up authentic Mediterranean flavours to locals and epicurious visitors alike. From sizzling seafood platters to mouth-watering moussaka, Yani’s menu is a true celebration of Greece’s rich culinary heritage. We’re talking meze, share plates, grilled dishes and fresh fresher than fresh seafood. Enjoy it all with a bottle of dangerously smooth Greek wine and finish the night with a serving of decadent bougatsa.

6/7-13 Beach Road, Coolum Beach 

Mr Mancino

Continuing your culinary tour around Europe, Coolum Beach’s resident Italian joint is the place to head for pizza, pasta, and all manner of comfort classics. With its emphasis on fresh ingredients and authentic recipes, Mr Mancino serves a wide-ranging menu across antipasti, pizza, slow-cooked meats, and desserts, but the star attraction is without a doubt the pasta. Start your night with salt and pepper calamari and mushroom arancini, order your favourite noodle with a homemade sauce of choice for the main (the gnocchi with burnt butter, sage and pumpkin and spicy tomato penne arrabbiata are standouts) and end the night with an assortment of Italian desserts – washed down with a bottle of vino. Naturally.

1806 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Coolum Surf Club

With its stunning ocean views and laidback atmosphere, the award-winning Coolum Surf Club is the epitome of beachside dining.  Relax outside on the dreamy outdoor deck and watch the waves roll in or dine inside to contemporary coastal furnishings with panoramic ocean views. Ideal for long lunches, post-swim snacks or casual catchups with friends, diners have their pick of club classics alongside a noteworthy selection of vegan, vegetarian, gluten, and dairy-free options. Think homemade gourmet pizzas, burgers, local seafood, salad and everything in between. Those in the know opt for the steaks which are cooked over an ironbark-fuelled coal pit to give a delicious sweet and smoky taste that will have you hooked.

1775-1779 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Stellarossa

A brunch destination where you can taste the saltwater in the air, Stellarossa is all about sunny day brunch sessions. Head here for a seriously good coffee, freshly made smoothie or afternoon cocktail. For the full experience, sit down to a plate of blueberry and ricotta hotcakes, chorizo corn fritters or a halloumi eggs bene wrap. Pack your swimmers because, after a delish feed, the sparkling water right in front of you will be too hard to resist. 

8/1778 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Coolum Beach Hotel

When you think of pub dining, coastal-cool interiors and a serene beachfront location don’t immediately come to mind, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Coolum Beach Hotel. Open seven days a week and brimming with atmosphere, this laidback local is the kind of all-inclusive community-minded venue where mum, dad and the three kids are just as welcome as the local surfers and after-hours crowd. Expect quintessential gastro-pub plates like parmas, burgers, and steaks as well as elevated dishes like vegan popcorn cauliflower, pumpkin red curry and poke bowls topped with spicy chicken, Asian slaw and kimchi. Friendly, tasty, and open every night of the week – what more could you want?

David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Hanami

Perched on the vibrant coastal stretch of David Low Way, Hanami is a must for Asian fusion cuisine rich in eclectic flavours. They do it all, and they do it well – delivering vibrant, punchy dishes that effortlessly complete their surroundings. Think sushi, pork and ginger dumplings, bao buns with chicken katsu, ponzu salmon sashimi and beef bulgogi that tastes just as good as it looks. 

9/1778 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Coolum Thai Spice

Sitting just back from the beach, Coolum Thai Spice is a real crowd-pleaser when it comes to seriously good and authentic Thai food. The space is welcoming and friendly with outdoor tables offering the perfect setting during summer. Keeping Thai-faring diners satiated with their extensive menu of stir fries, noodles, satays, and curries, the food is consistently good and is served in large portions at affordable prices. Each dish is packed full of flavour and is designed to be shared, just like they would have in the motherland.

1812 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

Bombay Bliss

Dinner with a view doesn’t get much better than Coolum Beach, and Bombay Bliss sure makes the most of it. Serving up legit Indian cuisine in a casual waterfront setting, here, fragrant curries are always made from scratch, while a hardworking tandoor oven pumps out pillowy naan bread and spiced up slow-cooked meats. You’ll find familiar favourites like chicken tikka masala and beef vindaloo that are perfect for sharing but don’t leave without trying house specialties including the moreish tandoori bites and Kashmiri Rogan Josh. The view is equally impressive with wide windows shaping the iconic seaside scenery.

1740 David Low Way, Coolum Beach

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Tropical North Queensland is renowned for natural beauty, with leafy green rainforests and a coastline worth travelling for. Located just a two hour drive from Cairns is the world’s oldest rainforest; the Daintree. Heritage listed in 1988, the Daintree is an inviting landscape, imploring you to explore a lush green landscape filled with natural wonder, ancient history and captivating wildlife.

Daintree Entomological Museum

If the critters outdoors are making you nervous, here’s a safer avenue to spy them up close and personal. Showcasing exotic butterflies, beetles, giant dragonflies and newer local species, the Daintree Museum’s extensive collection has been collected and bred by owner Stephen Lamond, and is housed within a building made from rainforest timberwood on Lamond’s property.

31 Turpentine Road, Diwan

Solar Whisper

If you fancy meeting a croc or two, hop on board the Solar Whisper; the only zero-emission boat on the Daintree River. The electric solar boats allow the operators to smoothly and quietly immerse you in nature, without impacting the environment or disturbing the wildlife. This means you can safely side-eye some crocodiles from a closer distance! You might also spot tree frogs, owls, snakes, lizards and more!

Cape Tribulation Road, Lower Daintree

Wildlife Habitat

With a conversation-first approach, Wildlife Habitat was first opened to the public in 1989 as a bird and butterfly sanctuary. Since then, it has expanded it’s conservation and public education efforts to include animals such as crocodiles, koalas, gliders, possums, tree kangaroos and much more. You can easily spend an entire day here exploring the five different habitats, catered to each animal type, as well as having your very own wildlife experience with ‘Feature Creature’ photos or the Crocarena saltwater croc swims!

Port Douglas Rd, Port Douglas QLD

Madja Botanical Walk

Exploring the natural history of Australia is made possible by the Madja, as you can find plants representing all stages of the evolution of land plants over the last 400 million years within it’s leafy surrounds. Stroll along the boardwalk and concrete path, and if you follow signs to Oliver Creek you can pull up a stump to sit and watch for crocodiles.

Lot 10 Cape Tribulation Road, Cape Tribulation

Cape Trib Farm

Combining regenerative farming principles with sustainability and state of the art technology, Cape Trib Farm maintains a light footprint on the Earth whilst celebrating the fruits of our native wildlife and beyond. A must-do for foodies, with over 70 rare and exotic fruits available for tastings, grown right here in their orchards. You can also enjoy a stroll through the orchard to learn more about each plant and their origins, uses and legends. Cottages are available for accommodation, so that you can stay a little longer to drink in the expansive mountain views.

3939 Cape Tribulation Road, Cape Tribulation

Daintree Tea Company

Established in 1978, the Daintree Tea Company is proudly 100% Australian owned, grown and operated. And you can see it for yourself by visiting the Cubbagudta Plantation, where they are situated in the Daintree. By visiting the plantation you can explore old tea machinery, shop at the roadside store and experience a little bit of homegrown history.

Lot 12 Cape Tribulation Road, Diwan

Daintree Discovery Centre

No trip to the Daintree is complete without visiting the Discovery Centre. Learn the history of one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world through audio visual theatres, self-guided walks, an aquarium and an interpretative display centre equipped with colourful infographics chock-full of information. The incredible aerial and canopy walkways will leave you awestruck, elevated above the forest floor not only allowing a better view; but also protecting the rainforest from damaging foot traffic.

Corner Cape Tribulation Road & Tulip Oak Road, Cow Bay

Daintree Wellness Spa

For those who have escaped to Tropical North Queensland for some well deserved R&R, look no further than the Wellness Spa, located in the Daintree Ecolodge. Inspired by the Indigenous wisdom of the traditional land owners, the Kuku Yalanji people, the healing properties of Australian botanical ingredients come to the forefront here. We recommend indulging in a Vichy (rain shower) treatment for the ultimate, full body relaxation experience.

3189 Mossman-Daintree Road, Daintree

For comprehensive holiday assistance, including tour bookings, transport and more, head to our Destination Management Services page to learn more.

For more destination guides and local travel inspiration, head to Sitchu.

Sitting pretty on the Mid-North Coast, Newcastle sums up what the Hunter region is all about: coastal living, country surrounds and delicious culinary exploits. Locals are spoiled for choice when it comes to dining – an ever-growing list of trendy new eateries swing open their doors along Beaumont, Darby, King and Hunter Streets, almost every day of the week. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite in town, or dinner spent listening to the lapping waves against the shore, we’ve whittled down the best restaurants in Newcastle that are guaranteed to impress.

Subo

A warm inviting space with exposed brick interiors and subtle touches of greenery, Subo is a fine dining destination that Newcastle has been craving. This contemporary bistro likes to keep things simple by offering a set five-course tasting menu of modern Australian cuisine, which pairs perfectly with their impressive line-up of wines and whiskies.

551D Hunter Street, Newcastle West

Nagisa

Sitting pretty on the harbour’s edge, Nagisa is where fresh produce, traditional Japanese culture and modern techniques coincide, to deliver an unforgettable dining experience. Serving up sashimi, sushi and noodles, Nagisa’s impeccably designed restaurant, with draped linen and pendant lighting, spills out onto an alfresco setting which comes alive on balmy nights. For thrill seekers, take a seat at the teppanyaki bar, and be mesmerised by the talented chefs and intoxicating aromas of sizzling meats and fresh seafood.

N2/1 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle

Rustica

Newcastle Beach sets the scene for Mediterranean-themed eatery, Rustica. Occupying a bright and airy space opposite the beach, the Dion Ackland-designed interiors and hand-crafted pieces by local artisans will have you look around in awe. The menu is all about tapas, share-style and banquet menus, all teeming with Mediterranean-style dishes.

1 King Street, Newcastle

Bocados

Serving up their delicious contemporary cuisine in the heart of the Hunter, Bocados is arguably Newcastle’s best tapas restaurant. For Spanish flair, Bocados brings the heat and flavour with their Jamon serrano, chicharron and local fave churros. The space is warm, like you have stepped into a friend’s home, and has a main dining room and banquet space for parties up to 70 people.

25 King Street, Newcastle

Surfhouse Restaurant

Occupying the top floor of the Merewether Surfhouse, The Surfhouse Restaurant by Lesley Taylor offers a menu that’s as impressive as its spectacular coastal views. White walls, copper accents and wooden furniture set the scene for a whimsical food experience. Look forward to a modern Australian menu that’s upscale without the pretentiousness, and filled with local, seasonal produce. Come summer the venue is a lively hub of activity, and the cocktail bar doubles up the perfect after dinner locale.

5 Henderson Parade, Merewether

Talulah

Not your standard restaurant, a visit to Talulah is a must for any foodie. Cultivating a warm and cosy vibe, the team feel like family and the food is made with the same level of care as a home-cooked meal. The Mediterranean styled menu is split into two, day and night, but both are focused on serving up the best seasonal produce available. In the warmer months, the verandah is the place to be for both sunrise and sunset.

52 Glebe Road, The Junction

The Landing Bar & Kitchen

Treat yourself to an afternoon at The Landing Bar and Kitchen, located along the Honeysuckle foreshore; a beloved waterfront precinct of Newcastle. Along with its idyllic views, this chic venue offers a summer-inspired cocktail list, making it a perfect place to relax and watch the harbour activity unfold come sunset. The modern-Italian menu includes plenty of sharing-type meals like wild mushroom arancini or for something heartier, opt for their mouth-watering clam linguine! 

1 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle 

MEET

For a taste of Brazil, MEET brings the real churrasco experience to the Newcastle streets. MEET sources the finest local pork, beef, chicken and lamb to spit roast over their custom BBQ, with added natural woods and coals to give the dishes that authentic smoky flavour. Along with endless meats served tableside, the huge menu of sides featuring cheese bread, cassava chips and banana fritters will have you hooked. Be sure to look out on the streets for the MEET Food Truck to get your hit of street food flavour.

1/2 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle

Una Volta

A true hidden gem, Una Volta’s unassuming setting and exposed brick interiors give this humble Italian trattoria an authentic edge. Each night there’s a fixed three-course menu that taps into local produce and traditional flavours. Regardless of your tastes and preferences, which the team work diligently to satisfy, Una Volta promise to deliver an unrivaled dining experience that won’t disappoint. If you need more convincing, the restaurant is BYO with no corkage fee. Sign us up!

23 Watt Street, Newcastle

For more destination guides and local travel inspiration, head to Sitchu.