Every must-try Dubbo restaurant and bar

Whether you’re hankering for a quick pie and coffee stop, a gastro pub feast or a fine dining experience in a winery, Dubbo has got every base covered.

Hear the name Dubbo and you’re likely to conjure up images of the giraffes walking the wilderness of Taronga Western Plains Zoo, or the aircraft of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. What’s less known, perhaps, is that Dubbo is also home to a thriving dining, coffee and craft beer scene.

What’s the best Dubbo restaurant to visit while you’re in town? Circle the following and make a booking (or two) with confidence.

The shortlist

Best coffee: Press
Most Instagrammable: Down the Lane
Fine dining: Cultivate
Best for families: Devil’s Hollow Brewery

1. Press

alfresco seating at Press Cafe, Dubbo — Nab a table in this gentle, greenery-filled space for a relaxed brunch. (Image: Destination NSW)

Known in some circles as ‘Dubbo’s answer to [Sydney’s] The Grounds of Alexandria’, and in others as ‘The crown jewel of Dubbo’s hospitality scene’, you can’t deny Press is pretty hot stuff. Housed in a charming 1930s house in Central Dubbo (the former office of the Land Newspaper), the coffee roastery, cafe, pantry shop and event space threw open its doors in 2015 and has been steadily growing its fanbase ever since.

Get past the throngs of people queuing for takeaway coffee out of the front to nab a table in this gentle, light-filled space and say oui to the likes of a roast pumpkin, feta and quinoa salad with spiced cashews, cucumber, tomato salads and crispy kumara for lunch. Caffeine? Not only can you drink your body weight in liquid gold (It’s hard to say no to their seasonal espresso blend of 70% Columbia Gaitana and 30% Brazil Nossa Snehora), you can buy bags of beans to enjoy at home.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $-$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed brunch crowd

Review: 5/5

Location: 30 Bultje Street, Dubbo

2. Down The Lane

the shaded courtyard at Down The Lane, Dubbo — Sip on premium cocktails in the shaded courtyard. (Image: Down The Lane)

If you like your modern Italian with a strong side of neon signage, premium cocktails and a ridiculously fashion-forward crowd, it’s time to make a beeline for Down the Lane, located right in the heart of town.

The younger sister of celebrated Dubbo eatery Church Street Cafe & Bar, the team at Down the Lane aren’t doing anything shady with spiders (you know what we’re talking about), pouring their magic into the ambience of the space (think garden party vibes) as well as the menu which offers a range of mouthwatering, handmade pizza and pasta options such as the popular baa babe – pizza with lamb ragu, mozzarella, red onion and tzatziki. All toppings and sauces at Down The lane are sourced from local suppliers, helping to keep support where it’s needed.

Headed there for lunch? Be sure to nab a table in the shaded courtyard.

Cuisine: Modern Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Electric garden party

Review: 5/5

Location: 215B Macquarie Street, Dubbo

3. Devil’s Hollow Brewery

preparing cocktails at Devil’s Hollow Brewery, Dubbo — An afternoon well spent with refreshing cocktails at Devil’s Hollow Brewery.

What do you get when four school friends come back from a holiday in South Africa with a vision to open a hub that draws in and unites craft beer lovers, coffee lovers and food lovers from all over the country? Devil’s Hollow Brewery, Dubbo’s first brewery.

Launched in 2019, Devil’s Hollow Brewery was quickly met with adulation from every age group (including the little ones who can’t get enough of their Little Devils menu featuring the likes of cheeseburgers and chicken tenders for lunch and dinner and pancakes with fruit for breakfast). At breakfast, a steady stream of customers pile in to get mitts on the establishment’s much-loved corn fitters or a classic avo toast, but come at lunch or a dinner and you’ll find the beer garden alive with diners keen to get their fill of woodfired pizzas. Keen for something more? It’s hard to go past the braised lamb shoulder with charred onions, mango chutney, grilled greens and creamy mash. To drink it alongside a beer – perhaps a Nosey Bob Red Ale or a Sandy Beach Belgian Blonde – with a story to tell? It couldn’t be more perfect.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Laidback charm

Review: 5/5

Location: 10 Commercial Avenue, Blueridge Business Park, Dubbo

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

4. Farmer’s Bakehouse

cake and pastries at Farmer’s Bakehouse, Dubbo — Make your day extra special with handcrafted cakes and slices. (Image: Farmer’s Bakehouse)

For those times when it’s less about the art of the long lunch and more about a quick pit stop at a place where the focus is on delivering high quality baked goods in a friendly atmosphere, Farmer’s Bakehouse has got you covered.

Established in 2009 and owned by fourth-generation farmer-turned-baker, Bart Shanks, Farmer’s Bakehouse might be famous for its signature flavour pies, but the team are also masters of handcrafted sourdough breads, cakes, pastries and happily, their full-bodied coffee.  With two locations in east and west Dubbo, you’d be crazy to miss out. You can even pop in for a salad.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Friendly and fast

Review: 5/5

Location: East: 55 Wheelers Lane, Dubbo; West: 38 Victoria Street, Dubbo.

5. Cultivate

the Lazy River Estate in Dubbo — Enjoy relaxed dining at the Lazy River Estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

Lazy River Estate might be known as the premier wedding and events venue in town, but those in the mood for a romantic date in a spectacular setting are also in luck with Cultivate at Lazy River Estate, an exclusive degustation dining event held only once a week in the Lazy River Estate dining room overlooking the Estate’s vines and manicured grounds.

With Executive Chef Brad Myers at the helm, diners can expect a seasonal menu that changes each month to showcase classic cuisine with a contemporary twist. A shellfish risotto, followed by a chicken wellington and a glazed lamb shoulder, topped with a vanilla and rhubarb pudding Anglaise? It would be rude to say no.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Sophisticated, with a touch of romance

Review: 5/5

Location: 29R Old Rubbo Road, Dubbo.

6. The Establishment Bar Dubbo

Sip on The Daisy Fellow cocktail at The Establishment Bar Dubbo — Sip on the Daisy Fellow cocktail at The Establishment Bar Dubbo. (Image: Dylan Mario)

Keen for a little nightcap? Tucked away down the alley beside the Old Gaol, The Establishment Bar Dubbo  – best described as a moody, 1930s-era speakeasy – isn’t the easiest venue to find, but that’s part of what makes the whole experience so special.

Drop in to embrace a world where whisky tasting flights reign supreme (the bar has over 100 varieties on the shelf), or work your way through the lengthy (and creative) menu of crafted cocktails and mocktails, spirits, wine or beer. If you’re really getting into it, you may want to stick around for a show or two. A solid comedy lineup can be found on the bar’s socials so keep your eyes peeled.

Atmosphere: Dark and moody

Review: 5/5

Location: Suite 2, Lv 1, 88 Macquarie Street, Dubbo.

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7. Old Bank Restaurant

the exterior of Old Bank Restaurant, Dubbo — Old Bank Restaurant is housed in a heritage building in the centre of Dubbo. (Image: Destination NSW)

Gastro pubs are often considered the hearts of regional centres and Old Bank Restaurant can certainly lay claim to that. Located in a heritage building in the centre of Dubbo, you can often hear the laughter and music emanating from Old Bank Restaurant long before you see it, and that’s exactly why you should book a table here.

On cool evenings, be sure to nab a table by the fireplace and say yes to that old-school Parmi or haloumi burger and sit back and enjoy the live music on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. This isn’t a quick stop, so dress for longevity and comfort.

Cuisine: Pub classics

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Fun and lively

Review: 5/5

Location: 232 Macquarie Street, Dubbo.

8. Short Street Store

a close-up shot of pancakes at Short Street Store, Dubbo — The must-try buttermilk pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup at Short Street Store.

For such a small following, Short Street Store has a huge following and the adulation fits. After all, who can hate a venue which offers classics like fairy bread (as well as poached eggs on toast) on a kids’ menu?

For adults, it’s all about those much-loved breakfast and brunch items: avo on toast and the brekkie burger, but it’s hard to go past a jaffle – particularly when it’s stuffed with shredded chicken, basil pesto, semi-dry tomatoes and mozzarella. Pop in for lunch and treat yourself to a poke bowl or salad, content in the knowledge that no matter what time you arrive (well, as long as it’s before 12 on weekends), you’ll find service with a smile and excellent coffee.

Cuisine: Brunch classics

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Relaxed charm

Review: 5/5

Location: 11 Short Street, Dubbo.

Discover the best things to do in Dubbo.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney. The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

Every must-try Dubbo restaurant and bar

Whether you’re hankering for a quick pie and coffee stop, a gastro pub feast or a fine dining experience in a winery, Dubbo has got every base covered.

The shortlist

1. Press

2. Down The Lane

3. Devil’s Hollow Brewery

4. Farmer’s Bakehouse

5. Cultivate

6. The Establishment Bar Dubbo

7. Old Bank Restaurant

8. Short Street Store

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Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.