Huntlee offers an abundance of cafes, restaurants and entertainment options nearby. Whether you are into casual brunch spots or fine dining restaurants, here’s our roundup of the best places to eat and drink
Location: 1 Triton Boulevard, North Rothbury
Travel Time: 1-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday - Sunday: 8.30am – 3.00pm
A neighbourhood favourite, AJ’s Café is located in the heart of Huntlee. A small family establishment that values local ingredients, they serve breakfast burgers, wraps, homemade cakes and coffee. The bacon & egg roll here is particularly popular. This place is also known for their creative custom cakes for special occasions. With its ample seating inside, AJ makes a great inviting spot for the whole family. Alfresco seating is also available with the beautiful District Park outside for kids and fur babies to safely roam about.
Location: 5 Winepress Rd, Branxton
Travel Time: 1-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday: 6.00am – 11.00am; Wednesday - Sunday: 6.00am – 2.00pm
Meltdown Huntlee is a collaboration between the cafe and those looking for a meal or a drink, it’s about building a place to encourage community and provide a space to bite, sip, explore and have a bit of fun of a morning.
Location: 9/22 Empire St, Branxton
Travel Time: 1-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday - Tuesday: 5.00am – 5.00pm; Wednesday - Friday: 5.00am – 8.30pm; Saturday: 6.00am - 8.30pm; Sunday 7.00am - 5.00pm
Mavericks are those who go against everyday norms. They are edgy and urban and have a swag. They also love aviators and Hawaiian shirts. This is how Mavericks Eatery was born. Open in 2022 Maverick located in Coles Huntlee Shopping Centre is providing the community a street style cafe food and beverages that go above and beyond your typical local cafe.
Location: 64 Maitland St, Branxton
Travel Time: 4-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 4.30am – 5.00pm; Saturday: 4.30am – 4.00pm; Sunday: 5.00am – 2.00pm
A haven for early risers, this spot offers a huge selection of baked pastries, good coffee and cakes at affordable prices. The Vietnamese pork rolls are a favourite among locals and the savoury pies. Service is always friendly it’s a cosy place to enjoy your daily cup of joe. It gets busy fast, so get in before noon for the freshest selection of baked goods.
Location: 67 High St, Greta
Travel Time: 6-min drive
Opening Hours: Thursday – Saturday: 8.00am – 1.00pm; Sunday: 8.00am – 12.00pm
Tucked behind a historic old church building located in Greta is a cosy coffee shop with a cult following for their divine cuppa. Often crowded with locals who are there for their morning caffeine fix, this café serves breakfast classics, brunch and lunch. There’s also a nice variety of desserts including gluten-free options. Their delicious warm scones with jam are a must. This cute little spot shares space with another merchant that sells new and vintage homeware along with a florist in-store. All in all, a great find and a destination in itself.
Location: 100 High Street, Greta
Travel Time: 6-min drive
Opening Hours: Wednesday - Sunday: 7.00am – 3.00pm
The Girl and The Goat Café is a family run establishment with a staff team comprising locals. Known for their artisan-style gourmet café in Greta, their aim is to provide visitors with good quality food with locally sourced ingredients. They take pride in supporting the local community and choosing produce that is grown and harvested sustainably. Some of their offerings include a full English breakfast and a hand-crafted lemon pepper Schnitzel. There’s also an array of cakes and croissants available.
Location: 102c McMullins Road, East Branxton
Travel Time: 7-min drive
Opening Hours: Saturday – Monday: 10.00am – 1.00pm; Tuesday – Friday: 10.00am – 12.00pm
The list of cafes in Hunter Valley will not be complete without including Elay High Tea in our mention. A hidden gem, this quaint and whimsically charming spot takes you back in time with their beautifully decorated room and stunning chinaware. One can expect the tradition of a full high tea that the Duchess of Bedford would approve. Food is good and beautifully presented and the service here is exceptionally attentive. If you love high tea, this is an unmissable experience.
Location: 1 Vintage Drive, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 9-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7.00am – 3.00pm
Located next to the Vintage Sales Office, The Vintage Airstream offers breakfast classics with good coffee. The portions are generous and the prices affordable. The toasted ham with cheese and tomato bagel is delightful. Service is fast and friendly. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available. Great ambience amidst nature with lots of walking paths nearby. This place caters for takeaway orders only.
Location: 455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 11-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 8.00am – 2.30pm; Saturday & Sunday: 8.00am – 3.30pm
Located right next to the Visitor Information Centre, this great find is an ideal place for a quick bite or just a place to recharge when you are up and about Hunter Valley. The menu comprises soups, sandwiches, sausage rolls, pies, cakes and barista-brewed Vittoria coffees. Prepared fresh daily by the chefs at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, this café has something for everyone. If you are craving for something comforting with simplicity and flair, the freshly made waffles with generous toppings hits the spot.
Location: Sabor Dessert Bar, Broke Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 11-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday: 10.00am – 4.30pm ; Saturday: 10.00am – 5.30pm
For those with an insatiable sweet tooth, the Sabor Dessert Bar is a dream come true. The selection here is extensive and decadent. Indulge in their multi-award winning mousses, cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream. Sabor also offers a good range of gluten-free desserts. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside whilst pairing your favourite dessert with coffee or wine. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, this place is a must stop when you visit the Hunter Valley. Booking is essential.
Location: 701 Lovedale Road, Rothbury
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 8.30am – 2.30pm; Saturday & Sunday: 8.00am – 2.30pm
Using beautiful, seasonal ingredients, The Deck Café serves up modern Australian dishes on an airy veranda that overlooks a lake nestled in greenery. Dishes range from classics with a twist to imaginative new creations that will excite the foodie in you. The tapas menu is designed for sharing. The duck liver parfait and baby calamari are touted to be particularly good. There is also an extensive vegetarian and gluten-free menu available. Overall, scrumptious food in an idyllic setting with welcoming and friendly staff. Within the estate, there are farm animals that will keep the kids entertained.
Location: 151 Wine Country Drive, Nulkaba
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8.00am – 3.00pm
A hidden gem located within a nursery, this café features an ever-evolving menu using local and seasonal produce. Their coffee bean is also sourced from a local supplier. Their vegetable tart using house made puff pastry is worth taking note, which seems to always sell out fast. Another highlight is their wonderful homemade bread. This place also makes their own sweet and savoury jam along with spice blends that you can purchase. A recommended spot for brunch or breakfast if you are in the area.
Location: Peppers Creek Village, Broke Road & Ekerts Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 14-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday; Breakfast: 8.00am – 10.45am; Lunch: 12.00pm – 2.45pm
Established in 1996, Café Enzo was one of the first cafes in the Hunter Valley. Set in the Tuscan-inspired Peppers Creek Village with sandstone buildings, landscaped gardens and stone fountains, this locale continues to dazzle with its homemade menu cooked with locally grown produce. The menu is modern Australian, delicious and made fresh to order. We are especially fond of the linguini with tiger prawns and the pork belly. Nice casual spot for breakfast and lunch with ample free on-site parking. Booking is recommended especially on weekends.
Location: 477 Lovedale Road, Lovedale
Travel Time: 16-min drive
Opening Hours: Thursday – Monday: 8.00am – 3.00pm
Experience a distinctive dining journey at Courtyard Eclectic, where a warm ambience complements their exceptional cuisine. Gary and Vanessa Blake, the dynamic husband-and-wife duo, curate a menu blending international flavours with the freshest, premium ingredients. Whether you prefer timeless classics or innovative delights, their offerings cater to every palate.
Location: 737 Lovedale Road, Lovedale
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Thursday – Monday: 11.00am – 5.00pm
Set against a stunning backdrop on a 25-acre estate, Leaves and Fishes immediately draws you in with their Balinese-inspired décor. The seafood-based menu includes fish and chips, Tasmanian scallops, soft shell crab in Singapore chilli sauce and many more. This place also harvests their own Silver Perch in the dam within the estate. Feeding the fish is great fun and a definite hit with the kids. A laid-back, informal dining approach, Leaves and Fishes has a no-reservation policy, only walk-ins. The restaurant was established in 2004, the Boathouses accommodation in 2008 and the Store in 2018 selling homewares, fashion, furniture and pantry items.
Location: 697 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 14-min drive
Opening Hours: Thursday & Sunday: 11.30am – 4.00pm; Friday & Saturday: 11.30am – 4.00pm, 6.00pm – 10pm
Helmed by two talents with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry, chef Sam Alexander and sommelier Pas Hester are harnessing the power of open flames to bring excellent food to the region. Constantly pushing the boundaries of what food can be, Yellow Billy features bold transcontinental flavours cooked in a custom-built fire pit. The result? The complex smokiness that keeps customers coming back for more. Make a booking and experience the pairing of good food with the list of progressive wines available at Yellow Billy.
Location: 136 Talga Road, Lovedale
Travel Time: 14-min drive
Opening Hours: Thursday – Monday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm, 6.00pm – 9.00pm
Remaining popular since opening in 2011, Lillino's Bar and Trattoria's menu showcases the true flavours of Sardinia. Locally-sourced ingredients are matched with the finest produce from Italy such as Prosciutto di Parma, mozzarella, parmesan and pizza flour directly from Napoli to create strong classics. Don’t skip the prawn linguine, the gnocchi with gorgonzola cream sauce or the pizza with rocket and prosciutto. Situated above the vines of St. Clements Estate, the restaurant has a serious wine list, all proudly estate-grown.
Location: 1039 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time:7-min drive
Opening Hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 5.30pm – 10.00pm; Friday: 11.30am – 3.00pm, 5.30pm – 11.00pm; Saturday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm, 5.30pm – 11.00pm ; Sunday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm, 5.30pm – 10.00pm
There’s a lot to love about this celebrated restaurant. Home to the Hunter Valley region for over 21 years, Amanda’s on the Edge just gets better with time. Keeping the food simple and authentic but executed with great finesse, this place offers two set menus – regular and vegetarian. Priced at $120 per person for a 3-course meal with a bottle of wine from Hunter Valley to share between two, be ready to be spoiled for choice with many of the mouth-watering options available.
Location: 555 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 14-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 6.00pm – 10.00pm ; Friday – Sunday: 12.00 – 3.00pm, 6.00pm – 10.00pm
Restaurant Botanica continues to wow with inspired flavours beautifully prepared to create impressive dishes. With the aim to provide diners with a great culinary experience, the menu features modern Australian cuisine with a stellar wine list. Led by Head Chef, Chris Rhoney, Restaurant Botanica is an award winning food destination, having won the One Hat in the Australian Good Food Guide for the past 3 years and Two Glasses in the 2020 Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the Year. Choose from a three-course à la carte menu or a five-course tasting menu with a wine pairing option.
Location:790 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 10-min drive
Opening Hours: Wednesday & Thursday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm; Friday & Saturday: 12.00pm – 3.00pm, 6.00pm – 9.00pm
Newly renovated, Esca Bimbadgen is a three-time award winner of Australia’s Best National Restaurant In A Winery. The refreshed menu consists of Australian modern cuisine that features unmissable dishes such as the spice roast cauliflower and the roast pork belly with miso butter available in their Spring menu. Led by Executive Chef, Mark Marshall, the menu changes regularly, showcasing what’s in season. Choose from three, four or five course meals whilst sipping on some of the best wines in the region amidst spectacular views of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
Location: 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale
Travel Time: 16-min drive
Opening Hours: Wednesday : 11.00am – 3.00pm; Thursday & Friday: 11.00am – 3.00pm, 6.00pm – 10.00pm; Saturday: 8.00am – 3.00pm, 6.00pm – 10.00pm; Sunday: 8.00am – 3.00pm
A restaurant with a relaxed vibe and a lively atmosphere, Emerson’s Restaurant is the kind of place where you won’t mind returning. Expect a diverse menu infused with bold flavours and contemporary flair with experienced chef Emerson Rodriguez at its helm. Come for the highly recommended duck pate and pan-roasted pork sirloin with sage butter sauce. The dessert selection is conventional but nevertheless, delicious. This restaurant is situated on the beautiful Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove property.
Location: 2188 Broke Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Friday – Monday: 5.30pm – 11.00pm
EXP. Restaurant offers something beyond the usual entrée, main and dessert. Instead, diners come here for an experimental tasting menu that promises to be delicious, entertaining and interactive. Sample the stunning multi course menu led by Hunter Valley Chef, Frank Fawkner who expertly combines the best of seasonal ingredients and flavours. The wine list includes premium wines from the Hunter region and around Australia. Guests are guided through the experience by the restaurant’s team of chefs, sommeliers and waiters.
Location: 2144 Broke Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 11.30am – 3.00pm, 5.30pm – 9.30pm
Located at Roche Estate, Oishii is a local haunt with good food at unbeatable prices. Serving authentic Thai and Japanese cuisine, this destination eatery offers an extensive menu including traditional favourites such as teriyaki chicken, sushi and sashimi. Must-try standouts include the classic Thai street food, Pad Thai and the Panang duck curry, a dish bursting with rich, creamy and spicy flavours. There’s also a variety of vegetarian dishes available. From sharing plates to a variety of small bites, there’s something on the menu for everyone at Oishii.
Location: Brokenwood Wines, 401-427 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 11.00am – 4.00pm; Friday & Saturday: 11.00am – 7.00pm
One of the highlights of the region, Brokenwood is not to be missed with its unique wine and food experiences. After exploring the sprawling 5-star winery to work up an appetite, head to the Cru Bar + Pantry for a sumptuous yet casual lunch. Led by Executive Chef, Sean Townsend this spot offers specialty dishes, woodfired pizzas and their famous charcuterie platters designed for sharing. The bar offers wine by the glass, bottle and from an Enomatic self-service dispenser featuring museum wines by the glass.
Location: Hunter Valley Gardens Village, Broke Road, Pokolbin
Travel Time: 13-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Thursday: 12.00pm – 2.30pm, 6.00pm – 8.30pm; Friday & Saturday: 12.00am – 2.30pm, 6.00pm – 9.00pm; Sunday: 8.30am – 11.00am
Housed in a sandstone building, The Cellar Restaurant is an elegant, light-filled venue with lush green foliage and a grand fireplace that takes centre stage. Showcasing the best of modern Australian cuisine, the seasonal menu features local produce from the Hunter farmlands and local waters. A clear demonstration of skill and experience in the kitchen, the food is fresh and flavoursome. The slow-cooked lamb deserves a special mention - brilliantly executed to perfection, each bite was tender and juicy. The vast venue is ideal for all events, including weddings, for up to 120 people.
Location: 3 Empire St, North Rothbury NSW 2335
Travel Time: 4-min drive
Opening Hours: Monday – Wednesday: 7am - 12am ;Thursday - Saturday: 7am - 1am; Sunday: 8.00am – 12.00am
Enjoy good times at the gateway to wine country. The Huntlee Tavern is your entertainment destination with live music all weekend, every weekend. Fridays you’ll enjoy the Hunter Valleys best Djs, Saturdays live bands & Sundays live soloists. Whatever your taste and style the Huntlee Tavern has you sorted. Their gastro bistro pub favourites are made with locally sourced , farm to plate product, allowing for an unforgettable experience.
Location: 50 Maitland St, Branxton NSW 2335
Travel Time: 7-min drive
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10am - 10pm; Friday - Saturday: 10am - 12am
Dine in the heart of the Hunter! The Royal Federal offers locals and visitors alike a welcoming country pub experience with a huge range of tap beers and quality local Hunter Valley wines. Their award winning bistro is renowned for its mouth-watering, locally sourced steaks and a great range of gourmet pizzas from the woodfired oven.
Location: 2090 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Travel Time: 15-min drive
Opening Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10am - 10pm; Friday - Saturday: 10am - 12am
Renowned in the region for its family-friendly atmosphere and live music scene, Harrigan’s Hunter Valley is the perfect place to stop in for a few drinks or a great meal. The hotel has a contemporary bistro and sports bar, plus a large all-weather alfresco dining area. With special events regularly and daily specials on offer, there’s something for everyone at Harrigan’s.
Location: 2144 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Travel Time: 15-min drive
Opening Hours: Tuesday - Sunday: 11.30am - 9.30pm
Goldfish is an award winning cocktail bar and renowned restaurant located next to Tempus Two at Roche Estate. Perfect for long lunches, group dinners and late nights. They are an integral part of the Hunter Valley community, and social hub, catering to locals and tourists alike. In fact, they’re so social that they specifically designed their food menu for groups to share.
Whether you're enjoying a meal with sprawling countryside views from the deck or listening to some live music with a few cocktails, their philosophy is simple, to provide a warm and fun environment no matter which end of the wine list you start at.
Location: 1 Claret Ash Dr, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Travel Time: 12-min drive
Opening Hours: Open 7 days: 7am - 10pm
Located within The Vintage Estate, NINETEEN is an exciting new bar and dining offering you’ve got to check out.
Whether it’s a relaxed breakfast, lunch or dinner, or simply drinks in the bar or bistro, NINETEEN is the place to be. With weekly specials, fabulous events and live entertainment, it’s fast become a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Location: Corner Hermitage Rd &, Mistletoe Ln, Pokolbin NSW 2320
Travel Time: 15-min drive
Opening Hours: Open 7 days: 7.30am - 8pm
Sit back, relax and enjoy great food and drinks with stunning 360 degree panoramic views of the picturesque Hunter Valley and vineyards. Boasting a new 600 square metre tap room, bistro and cellar door, it’s one of the Valley’s must-try destinations.
Located next to the family owned and operated Hunter Valley Resort and Hunter Farm, 4 Pines at The Farm is perfect for enjoying one of the 12 beer on tapwith your mates, or having a Semillon in the sun with your gals.
A community with great connections, Huntlee puts you just minutes from the M15 Hunter Expressway and Branxton Train Station.
Time to pack a picnic, bring your furry friends and spend the day out with family and friends exploring the parks and playgrounds around Huntlee.
Major shopping centres are located in Singleton, Cessnock, and Rutherford – all within an easy 20-minute drive from Huntlee.
Find the perfect block of land to build your new home in Huntlee.
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