TOP 20+ Best Hunter Valley Restaurants You Must Try

Exploring the best restaurants in the Hunter Valley is a must for any visitor, whether you’re here for wine tasting, a romantic escape, or a relaxing countryside getaway. This region isn’t just about cellar doors and vineyards – the Hunter Valley dining scene is one of Australia’s best, blending fresh local produce, top chefs, and stunning vineyard views.

From fine dining in Pokolbin restaurants to casual lunch spots in Cessnock, these Hunter Valley eateries tell a story of connection between land, produce, and people. Whether you’re after a cosy dinner in Hunter Valley, a long vineyard lunch, or looking for restaurants with a view, this guide covers them all.

Below is our curated list of top restaurants in the Hunter Valley, listed in alphabetical order (because honestly, how could we choose a favourite?). Discover where to eat in Hunter Valley, what to try, and why each venue deserves a spot on your itinerary.

Circa 1876 Restaurant The Convent

Circa 1876 offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience on the historic Roscrea Estate. The dishes are crafted from local produce, many straight from their gardens. With its “unbuttoned fine dining” vibe, this spot is ideal for everything from romantic dinners in the Hunter Valley to casual gatherings.

• Address: 64 Halls Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Tempura Soft Shell Crab
• Open Hours: Fri & Sat 12–4 pm, Dinner: Tues–Sat 5:30–10 pm
• Phone: +61 2 4998 4999
• Website: https://convent.com.au/dining/circa-1876
• Price Range: $100+

Esca Bimbadgen Restaurant

Esca offers simple yet elegant meals with panoramic views at one of the best wineries in Hunter Valley, Bimbadgen Winery. Their seasonal menu perfectly complements the region’s wines, making every visit special and timely.

• Address:  790 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try:  Five-course experience with matching wines
• Open Hours:  Wed (12–3 pm). Thur-sat (12–3 pm, 6–9 pm)
• Phone:  +61 2 4998 4600
• Website: https://www.bimbadgen.com.au/dining/
• Price Range: $100+

EXP. Restaurant

EXP. delivers a fine dining experience with a personal touch. Their six-course tasting menu is a journey through local flavours and techniques, with vegetarian options available. Every dish tells a story, and the setting adds to the magical ambience. If you’re looking for fine dining in the Hunter Valley, EXP. restaurant offers an unforgettable experience that showcases the best food in Hunter Valley.

• Address:  2188 Broke Rd, Pokolbin
• Must Try:  Sea scallops and locally sourced duck
• Open Hours:  Fri-Mon (5.30–11 pm). Sat (3–11 pm)
• Phone:  +61 478 374 677
• Website: https://www.exprestaurant.com.au
• Price Range: $200+ per person.

Goldfish Hunter Valley Restaurant

Located at Roche Estate, Goldfish is where locals go for cocktails and great food. You can dine indoors or outdoors to enjoy views of the vineyards. Their award-winning cocktail list and shared-style menu are a highlight. This restaurant is a community favourite and one of of the best places to eat in Hunter Valley. If you are here in spring, one of the best times to visit Hunter Valley, you may catch some live music events.

• Address: Roche Estate, Corner of Broke & McDonald Roads, Pokolbin
• Open Hours: Open daily, 11.30 am – 9.30 pm and till late on Fri, Sat and Mon.
• Best picks: Seafood platter and fish tacos
• Phone: +61 2 4998 7671
• Website: https://www.thegoldfish.com.au/menu
• Price Range: $80+

Read more:

• What to Do In Hunter Valley?
• Your Ultimate Guide to Hunter Valley Wine Tasting Tours

Lucky Duck Restaurant

This restaurant is located at Leaves and Fishes in Lovedale. Its overwater vibe makes it a great spot to grab a quick bite on a leisurely afternoon or sit for dinner with friends. Their bao buns and whole baby snapper attract the crowds.  

• Address:  737 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2325
• Must Try:  Pork belly and smoked trout
• Open Hours:  Fri & Sat (11 am-8.30 pm), and Sun (11 am-3 pm)
• Phone:  +61 2 4930 7400
• Website: https://luckyduckrestaurant.com.au/
• Price Range: $40-$60 per person

Muse Restaurant

The Muse is located at Hungerford Hill Winery and is one of the Hunter Valley restaurants that showcases contemporary Australian cuisine. It balances elegance with warm hospitality, making visitors feel right at home. Their menus are all about respecting the seasons; hence, the dishes are always changing. Our Hunter Valley Mid-week itinerary includes a Tuesday meal at the Muse.

• Address: 2450 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Muse Coconut Dessert
• Open Hours: Tue-Sat 6 pm – 9 pm
• Phone: +61 2 4998 6777
• Website: https://www.musedining.com.au
• Price Range: $150+

NINETEEN Hunter Valley

NINETEEN is a casual Pokolbin restaurant located within The Vintage Estate. It is popular among locals thanks to its family-friendly setting with live sports, music, and happy hours. Visit this spot solo or in groups for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

• Address:  1 Claret Ash Dr, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try:  Prawn Linguine, Risotto
• Open Hours:  Sun-Thur (7 am-8.30 pm). Fri & Sat (7 am-10 pm)
• Phone:  +61 2 4998 2244
• Website: https://nineteenhuntervalley.com.au
• Price Range: $20-$40 per person

Oishii Japanese and Thai Restaurant

Oishii is one of the best places for lunch Hunter Valley, this restaurant serving lunch and dinner daily. It is a popular eatery for those who love the Asian cuisine. The restaurant is set at Roche Estate and offers indoor and outdoor dining.

• Address:  2144 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try:  Pad Thai, Spring Rolls
• Open Hours:  Serves lunch and dinner daily. 11.30–3 pm and 5.30 to 9.30 pm.
• Phone:  +62 2 4998 7051
• Website: https://www.oishii.com.au/hunter-valley
• Price Range: $20-$40 per person

Pescara Restaurant

Inspired by the beach city of Pescara, this Italian restaurant Hunter Valley NSW offers meals that feel more like home-cooked favourites. Pescara sits right by the Hermitage Lodge and is the perfect spot for relaxed lunches or dinners when you are not on the road exploring the hidden gems in Pokolbin. Their handmade gnocchi and buttery scampi are a must-try. This is also one of the restaurants near Hunter Valley Gardens (just 4 mins drive).

• Address:  609 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try:  Carpaccio and gnocchi
• Open Hours:  Dinner Thur-Mon (from 5.30 pm) and Lunch Sat-Mon (12 pm to 3 pm)
• Phone:  +61 2 435 730 220
• Website: https://www.pescara.com.au
• Price Range: $89+

Restaurant Kawul – Dining & Events

Kawul embraces native flavours and pays homage to the land through its menu. This casual dining Hunter Valley is located within Calais Estate and offers a dining experience rich in local culture. Their emphasis on native bush spices and vegan-friendly options make it a unique stop in the valley.

• Address:  151 Palmers Ln, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try:  Two Hunter Poached Eggs
• Open Hours: Fri, Sun, & Mon (9 am-2.30 pm), Sat (9 am-8 pm) and Thurs (12 to 2.30 pm.
• Phone: +62 2 4998 7333
• Website: https://www.kawul.com.au
• Price Range: $80+

The Deck Cafe Lovedale

The Deck Cafe offers a scenic setting with a modern Australian menu. It is located at Gartelmann Wines, overlooking a dam. Start your day with a hearty breakfast in Hunter Valley or enjoy a tapas-style lunch with a wide range of beverages.  

• Address:  701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2325
• Must Try:  Wild Mushroom Arancini
• Open Hours:  Daily from 8 am–2:30 pm
• Phone:  +61 2 4930 9007
• Website: https://www.deckcafelovedale.com.au
• Price Range: $20-$40 per person

Yellow Billy Restaurant

Known for its tasty food and ambience, Yellow Billy is a must-visit in Pokolbin. From pit-fired pork to kingfish, there is something for every taste. The casual dining Pokolbin also serves vegetarian options, and every bite here is sensational.

• Address:  Piggs Peake Winery, 697 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin
• Must Try:  Lamb Ragout Pappardelle
• Open Hours: Thurs and Sun (11.30 am to 4 pm), Fri and Sat (11.30 am to 4 pm/6 pm-10 pm).
• Phone:  +61 2 6574 7204
• Website: https://www.yellowbillyrestaurant.com
• Price Range: $80+

Bistro Molines

Bistro Molines brings a slice of Provence to the Hunter Valley. Perched high in Mount View with sweeping vineyard views, it offers rustic French provincial dining in an elegant but relaxed atmosphere. Chef Robert Molines crafts refined dishes using fresh local produce, many from the on-site garden. This Hunter Valley restaurant is a perfect spot for a lunch in the Hunter Valley or a dinner in Hunter Valley.

• Address: 749 Mount View Rd, Mount View NSW 2325
• Must Try: Orange-glazed Twice-Cooked Duck
• Open Hours: Mon, Thu–Sun: 12–3 PM; Sat: also open 7–10 PM; Tue & Wed: Closed
• Phone: +61 2 4990 9553
• Website: https://www.bistromolines.com.au

Margan Restaurant

Located in Broke, Margan offers a true paddock-to-plate experience with over 90% of ingredients sourced from their own kitchen garden and farm. Expect seasonal tasting menus focused on sustainability and freshness. The vibe is elegant country charm paired with serious culinary flair. If you’re looking for the best food Hunter Valley, Margan is a must-visit restaurant in Hunter Valley that highlights the best food in Hunter Valley.

• Address: 1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke NSW 2330
• Must Try: Estate-Reared Suffolk Lamb
• Open Hours: Mon–Fri, Sun: 10 AM–5 PM; Sat: 10 AM–10 PM
• Phone: +61 2 6579 1372
• Website: https://www.margan.com.au
• Price Range: $100+

Restaurant Botanica

Set within Spicers Vineyards Estate, Restaurant Botanica – one of the best vineyard restaurants Hunter Valley – delivers modern Australian dishes using produce from its kitchen garden. The ambiance is tranquil and sophisticated with vineyard views and seasonal menus showcasing local ingredients.

• Address: 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: White Pyrenees Lamb with XO Sauce
• Open Hours: Wed – Thu: 5:30 – 8 PM; Fri: 5:3 – 8:30 PM; Sat – Sun: 12 – 2:30 PM, 5:30 – 8:30 PM (Sun dinner to 8 PM)
• Phone: +61 2 6574 7229
• Website: https://www.restaurantbotanica.com.au
• Price Range: $100+

Amanda’s on the Edge

Located on a gentle hill overlooking vineyards, Amanda’s on the Edge offers hearty modern Australian meals in a relaxed cottage-style setting. Known for generous portions, great hospitality, and panoramic views, it’s one of the best spots for lunch in the Hunter Valley vineyards.

• Address: 1039 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Dumplings in 8-Hour Chilli Sauce
• Open Hours: Wed–Thu: 5:30–10 PM; Fri: 11:30 AM–3 PM, 5:30–11 PM; Sat: 12–3 PM, 5:30–11 PM; Sun: 12–3 PM, 5:30–10 PM; Mon–Tue: Closed
• Phone: +61 2 4998 7900
• Website: https://www.amandas.com.au
• Price Range: $50–$80

Hunters Quarter (HQ)

Located at Cockfighter’s Ghost Vineyard, Hunters Quarter is modern, elegant, and perfect for long lunches in the Hunter Valley or refined dinners in Hunter Valley. Chef Brian Duncan creates bold yet balanced dishes using premium local ingredients. This Hunter Valley restaurant offers a top-tier dining experience in Hunter Valley.

• Address: 576 De Beyers Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Smoked Duck Breast with Macadamia & Quince
• Open Hours: Lunch: Sat–Sun: 11:30 AM–3 PM, 5:30–10:30 PM
• Phone: +61 2 4998 7776
• Website: https://huntersquarter.com
• Price Range: $100+

éRemo Restaurant & Bar

Offering contemporary Italian dining, Éremo delivers warmth and sophistication with shared menus, homemade pastas, and a focus on local produce. The “Avido” tasting menu is perfect for a group feast or romantic night out. For those looking for best dining Hunter Valley, Éremo provides a memorable experience that highlights the best ones in Hunter Valley.

• Address: 57 Ekerts Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Shared “Avido” Menu Featuring House-Aged Venison
• Open Hours: Daily: 7 AM–10 PM
• Phone: +61 2 4022 1801
• Website: https://www.spicersretreats.com/restaurants/eremo
• Price Range: $100+

The Gates Restaurant @Leogate Estate Wines

A polished fine dining venue on Leogate Estate with stunning views of the Brokenback Range. Known for dry-aged beef, estate wines, and degustation menus that showcase premium Hunter Valley produce with finesse. If you’re searching for Hunter Valley restaurants for dinner or fine dining in the Hunter Valley, this restaurant is a must-visit for an exceptional experience.

• Address: 1693 Broke Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Dry-Aged Angus Scotch Fillet
• Open Hours: Wed–Sat: 11:30 AM–3:30 PM, 6–9 PM; Sun: 11:30 AM–3:30 PM
• Phone: +61 2 4998 7499
• Website: https://www.leogate.com.au/the-gates-restaurant
• Price Range: $100+

The Wood Restaurant

Located at Brokenwood Wines, The Wood champions wood-fired cooking using seasonal ingredients. Expect bold flavours, vineyard views, and a relaxed yet elegant setting that perfectly suits long lunches in Hunter Valley and wine pairings. If you’re looking for the perfect spot for lunch in the Hunter Valley, this one offers a truly memorable experience.

• Address: 401–427 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320
• Must Try: Fire-Grilled Spatchcock
• Open Hours: Mon–Tue, Fri–Sun: 12–3 PM
• Phone: +61 2 4998 7559
• Website: https://www.brokenwood.com.au/Dine
• Price Range: $50–$80

Where to Eat & Stay in the Hunter Valley?

After a day of wine tasting and a night of indulging in the best Hunter Valley dinner restaurants, you’ll want to retreat to somewhere that feels like home – with a touch of luxury. Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hermitage Lodge offers peaceful vineyard views and stylish accommodation just steps away from some of the best Hunter Valley restaurants for dinner.

Whether you’re planning a gourmet getaway, a couple’s retreat, or a weekend of wine and dine experiences, Hermitage Lodge is the perfect base to explore all the best places to eat in Hunter Valley NSW.