12 Of The Tastiest Bathurst Restaurants

Bathurst offers a perfect combination of history, culture and delectable cuisine, making it a pleasantly surprising destination for foodies.

Nestled in the heart of regional New South Wales lies the charming town of Bathurst, where locals and visitors alike can find a foodie’s paradise hidden amongst the rolling hills and heritage architecture. Bathurst restaurants offer a culinary experience that rivals many big cities, with a focus on fresh ingredients and a welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re stopping by for a special event or just passing through, make sure to add our pick of Bathurst restaurants to your list of things to do to experience the rich cultural and gastronomic offerings of this down-to-earth town.

1. Church Bar + Woodfired Pizza

If you’re looking for a funky, rustic atmosphere, Church Bar + Woodfired Pizza is definitely worth checking out. The menu offers simple, traditional pizzas as well as focaccias and share plates (if you can go past the selection of mouth-watering pizzas).

The vibe is friendly, with cosy corners to settle into inside and a vibrant, leafy courtyard outside. And yes – it’s a very church-like, revamped old schoolhouse oozing European ambience. There’s a good selection of wines, cocktails, craft beers and often live music, making it a popular choice for a relaxed night out.

Address: 1 Ribbon Gang Lane, Bathurst

2. Kisuya Japanese Restaurant

Located at the West Point Shopping Centre, Kisuya has a relaxed and authentically Japanese feel. As the Bathurst dining scene continues to evolve, this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Japanese cuisine and is a hit amongst locals.

The menu is designed to showcase local ingredients, expertly prepared using Japanese cooking techniques and sauces with a modern twist. The dishes have been created to be shared, making it a great option for a group outing. There’s also a fun selection of authentic, Japanese drinks, including beer on tap.

a table-top view of Japanese dishes at Kisuya Japanese Restaurant, Bathurst — Try Kisuya’s modern Japanese dishes.

Address: West Point Shopping Centre, Bathurst

3. Maalouf’s Restaurant

A favourite amongst locals who keep coming back for more, Maalouf’s oozes authenticity, serving up healthy and delicious home-style cooking at reasonable prices. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, and the ambience is a little grungy and old-fashioned, transporting you back to the nostalgic nineties in the best way.

With dine-in and takeaway options and a hard-to-decide-cause-it-all-looks-so-good menu, you’ll be relieved to know there’s a banquet on offer so you can relax and leave the decision to the chefs. The dishes are made with a unique and diverse set of ingredients, showcasing the very best of Lebanese cuisine.

Address: 52 George St, Bathurst

4. Norma Joan

Norma Joan is a hidden treasure in Bathurst, with cosy indoor seating and a courtyard that’s perfect for a warm weather evening. The share plates are simple but packed with flavour and perfect for sharing with family and friends.

The atmosphere is classy but relaxed, and the staff are friendly and attentive – making for a cruisy dining experience. Its range of specialty local wines, beers and cocktails is the perfect accompaniment to the food and good vibes. We can see why regulars rave about it.

Address: 142 William St, Bathurst

5. Mama Mio Cafe

If you’re looking for hearty, comforting, authentic Italian food then Mama Mio Cafe will be right up your alley. This Bathurst restaurant has a laid-back and unpretentious atmosphere where the focus is on good grub that leaves you satiated.

You’ll be spoiled for choice with the extensive menu that features simple, traditional-style pizzas and more gourmet, abundant options, as well as pasta, meat dishes and all your favourite Italian desserts. You can dine in or opt for takeaway or delivery.

Mama Mio Cafe in Bathurst, NSW — Dive into delicious Italian fare at Mama Mio.

Address: Shop 1/2 49 William St, Bathurst

6. The Terrace Thai

The Terrace Thai in West Bathurst is a must for anyone craving authentic Thai cuisine in a comfortable, friendly environment. The restaurant boasts a massive menu for both lunch and dinner every day except Monday, with the option of dine-in or takeaway.

The vibrant and homely vibe, combined with the traditional decor, creates a relaxed and inviting ambience. If you can snag a seat outside (yes, on the terrace), you can enjoy looking over the lovely, landscaped gardens that will transport you to Thailand. The food is tasty, generously portioned and beautifully presented.

Address: 263 Durham St, West Bathurst

7. Tamarin Indian Restaurant

If you’re on the lookout for Bathurst’s best Indian, Tamarin will hit the spot. This hidden gem offers all your Indian favourites in a vibrant and authentic atmosphere that transports you to Bollywood. The service is friendly and very accommodating, and all dietary options and tastes are catered for. Meals are hearty and great value, with the option to BYO.

Address: 126 William St, Bathurst

8. Anam Restaurant

If you’re craving an authentic Vietnamese experience, you’ll love Anam Restaurant . This small, family-owned restaurant is tucked away in an aging Bathurst arcade, but don’t be fooled by its humble exterior. Inside, you’ll find a cosy and authentic atmosphere with friendly, fast service and amazing food.

The menu is full of fresh, tasty dishes that won’t break the bank, and the BYO option makes it even more affordable. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s vibrant, comfortable and the real deal.

Address: 177 Howick St, Bathurst

9. B Town BBQ

If you’re in the mood for some classic American-style barbecue in Bathurst, you’ll be stoked to stumble upon B Town , located in one of Bathurst’s iconic pubs, The Oxford Hotel.

It offers Texas-style barbecue and southern-inspired dishes to drool over in a cosy, modern atmosphere. They’re open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner, and the menu is as abundant as you’d expect, boasting everything from smoked meats to pizza.

Address: 170 William St, Bathurst

10. El Guapo Cantina

El Guapo Cantina delivers a unique Mexican dining experience with its moody but welcoming ambience, cool decor and on-point food. There’s indoor and outdoor seating and a diverse array of inimitable yet traditional Mexican dishes.

The menu is abundant but not overwhelming and there’s something for everyone – making it a great choice for groups. You might even think you’ve been transported to a charming restaurant in the heart of America’s South, where Mexican restaurants are authentic and plentiful. Plus, the margaritas are magnificent!

EL Guapo restaurant in Bathurst, NSW — Sit outside for tacos and a sundownder.

Address: 49 Keppel St, Bathurst

11. Cobblestone Lane

Cobblestone Lane is the Bathurst go-to for fine dining, offering a charming and character-filled experience, perfect for date night or a special occasion. Housed in a heritage-listed former department store, the restaurant offers a glimpse of the talented culinary team through its open kitchen.

The Asian and European-inspired menu features standout dishes and, of course, the dessert menu is to die for. Cobblestone is open from Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner.

Address: 2/173-179 George St, Bathurst

12. Dogwood BX

If you’ve heard the hype about Dogwood BX , we’re here to confirm that it’s justified. Even the Texans would agree – this American-style eatery has the perfect blend of melt-in-your-mouth comfort food, tasty cocktails and attentive service.

The owner’s passion comes through in the friendly atmosphere and vibrant flavours. The vibe is chilled-out-Texan with low lighting, funky decor and a cute outdoor area to enjoy your meal under the fairy lights. The menu boasts everything from hot wings to mac and cheese and the famous Dogwood burgers.

Address: 87 Keppel St, Bathurst

For more insider tips and must-do experiences, read our Bathurst travel guide.

From serene natural beauty to vibrant nightlife, with plenty of arts and culture in between, the NSW Central Coast has been enjoying a serious glow up.

Just one hour from Sydney, the Central Coast has long been the perfect seaside getaway. And with its ECO Destination certification with a focus on sustainability, it’s a trip travellers can feel good about, too. Recently, new and exciting openings have turned the Central Coast into a place where incredible natural beauty is still on the table, but so is a vibrant and sophisticated arts, dining and nightlife scene.

Find out what’s new to discover on the Central Coast.

1. Gosford’s glow up

room at voco gosford — Book into voco and experience the best of Gosford.

Long-time Central Coast lovers will hardly recognise Gosford these days. While always boasting gorgeous water views, a range of revamps and new openings have turned it into a busy hub of arts and culture, with an increasingly diverse and vibrant nightlife.

Landmark lifestyle hotel voco Gosford is the perfect home base for a Central Coast getaway. At this IHG hotel overlooking sparkling Brisbane Water, guests can spend sunny days soaking in the rooftop pool (or just sipping a cocktail beside it). When it comes to meals, you can enjoy multiple venues serving up everything from modern Australian fare to fine-dining Japanese.

Venture out to lay eyes on the Central Coast’s first permanent Moving Image Gallery (MIG) . Opened this year inside the Gosford Regional Gallery , the immersive space is a showcase of screen-based and digital art. While at the gallery, wander around the Edogawa Commemorative Garden, a traditional Japanese strolling garden complete with teahouse, koi pond and an ornamental bridge.

Meanwhile, the revamped Gosford Regional Library has even more than books to discover. Now, it’s one of the best in the southern hemisphere – find exhibitions, historical archives and community initiatives for all ages at this perfect family-friendly escape.

2. Newcomers to the dining scene

table full of food at Amarilla restaurant terrigal — Treat yourself to sundowners and snacks at Amarilla.

The Central Coast has long been the perfect destination for gourmands, with everything from casual eats to fine dining elevating the local offerings. And three new destinations have been added to the map.

Amarilla at The Haven in Terrigal is the perfect seaside venue for sundowners, with blissed-out beats providing the soundtrack. Book in for golden hour and choose bites from a Spanish tapas menu made for sharing. Do as the locals do and wash it all down with sangria – the Sunday Sangria Sessions have become a local institution.

Also in Terrigal, Little Miss has brought a premium Mediterranean menu to the waterfront. Try the wagyu tartare with Greek caviar or butter-poached lobster and tomato bisque, paired with inventive cocktails and a handpicked selection of Lebanese wines.

Over in Ettalong, Bar Toto is perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks. This award-winning cocktail bar is known for its creative concoctions, along with craft beer, wine and antipasti platters to snack on. The interior sets the mood, with dim lighting and wooden furnishings.

3. New Central Coast experiences

winemaker at Firescreek Botanical Winery — Book an experience at Firescreek Botanical Winery.

It’s entirely possible (and recommended) to spend a Central Coast getaway relaxing on one of its many peaceful and pristine beaches. But for those who crave more, there’s a long list of options to keep you busy.

Pop into the iconic Australian Reptile Park to see the new Weigel Venom Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that’s home to over 200 of the country’s most venomous snakes.

Get out on the water with Sail Central Coast , which offers 20 years of expertise in yacht charters. Book the Sunset Sail & Dine yacht charter for a private afternoon cruising the waterways of Bouddi National Park and Brisbane Water, stopping at Anchor on Hardys for a two-course meal with a cocktail.

For something completely different, Firescreek Botanical Winery is now offering an Aboriginal Storytelling and Wine Tasting Experience. Learn about local cultures, stories and traditions from an Aboriginal Elder, then enjoy a botanical-inspired wine tasting led by a local winemaking expert.

4. Central Coast accommodation

view from a cottage at Noonaweena — Sleep in the hinterland at Noonaweena.

There’s simply too much to experience on the Central Coast to only stay for one day. Turn your trip into a relaxing getaway by the beach.

Allawah , a retreat on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, is accessible only by boat. This secluded two-bedroom cottage is the perfect place to unwind, allowing you to spend lazy days fishing, kayaking, paddling or unwinding with a book on your own private jetty.

In the Kulnura hinterland, Noonaweena features a range of accommodation styles, from a luxe glamping bell tent to cottages and a treetop suite. It’s a leader in green travel, with 10 years of certification from Eco Tourism Australia. Relax in the onsite wellness centre or get active on various courts and in the gym facilities.

To stay by the ocean at Toowoon Bay, book into Kim’s Beachside Resort . This adults-only property offers a luxury escape nestled within a sub-tropical rainforest. Along with 36 private timber bungalows, indulge in massages or reiki treatments at the dedicated spa, or stop by the cocktail bar and à la carte restaurant.

5. Shopping on the Central Coast

Umina’s Centred Ceramics central coast — Try your hand at Umina’s Centred Ceramics’ pottery courses.

For those after unique trinkets, handmade treasures and beautiful homewares, the Central Coast is a haven.

Markets on the Central Coast have a special flavour. Wander the Umina Beach Markets at twilight, where you’ll find small businesses from the local areas, and the Norah Head Ocean View Markets , where you can soak up good food, live music and artisan finds by the beach after sunset. ‘Tis the season for the Christmas twilight edition of the Avoca Beachside Markets, celebrating the season with pop-up bars, tasty treats and plenty of unique gift options from local artists and producers.

Galleria Ettalong has also added to the Central Coast’s recent makers and creators renaissance, wrapping cinemas, a dining precinct and over 40 boutique shops into one area.

Sign up for a pottery course at Umina’s Centred Ceramics , or peruse the shop for a range of one-of-a-kind pottery made on the premises for a special souvenir.

For more eclectic arts and homewares, pop into Blue Bird Collective Co . This marketplace supports over 35 small, local and handmade businesses, artists and creatives. Take the time to check out fashion, jewellery and homewares that won’t be found anywhere else.

Start planning your coastal getaway at lovecentralcoast.com .

12 of the tastiest Bathurst restaurants