The Orange Restaurant Guide Guaranteed To Satisfy

From hatted restaurants to wineries that do food really well, here’s our pick of where to eat in the Orange region.

The NSW Central West town of Orange has long been known for its reputation as a boutique cool-climate wine region, but add to the mix a selection of wining and dining establishments that are tapping into the rich heritage and earthy spoils of the Orange region and you get a dynamic restaurant scene worth travelling for.

Here we explore the Orange restaurants you simply can’t miss.

1. Fiorini’s Osteria Italiana

This charming Italian restaurant features a cosy interior with an open-plan kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work. On the menu? Recently appointed head chef Simon Hawke (ex Lolli Redini and Birdie) will serve up flavour-packed traditional Italian dishes such as wagyu beef ragu, burrata with melon and prosciutto and lamb cutlets. To complement the food, a curated selection of Italian wines enhances the authentic dining experience. The warm, rustic atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for both intimate dinners and group gatherings.

The interior has been given a revamp with fresh paint and antique furnishings.

Address: 816 Canobolas Rd, Canobolas

2. The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank

For a delightful dining experience, make your way to The Union Bank on Byng Street, which opened its doors in 1858 as Orange’s first bank. Sit al fresco and sip an ale or local wine at the UB Bar & Courtyard before heading for dinner at the adjoining Schoolhouse Restaurant.

The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank, Orange — Make your way to The Union Bank on Byng Street.

The Schoolhouse Restaurant’s simple but vibrant brasserie-style menu shines a light on Orange region’s produce – think sirloin with miso bagna cauda or ‘Sir Thomas’ chuck tail flap with chimichurri. But one item that’s an absolute non-negotiable? Farmer Doug’s potato scallops for a cool $3 each.

a table-top view of dinner plates at The Schoolhouse Restaurant at The Union Bank, Orange — Head for a brasserie-style dinner at The Schoolhouse Restaurant. (Image: Emily Murphy)

Address: 84 Byng St, Orange

3. Tonic

The hamlet of Millthorpe is a 20-minute drive south of Orange and worth the trip for its historic streetscape alone. Team it with a meal at Tonic , a highly-awarded, refined and relaxed contemporary restaurant housed within a heritage-listed building, and you’re onto a real winner.

the exterior of Tonic Restaurant — Tonic is housed within a heritage-listed building. (Image: Destination NSW)

Chef and co-owner Tony Worland has worked alongside culinary luminaries like Matt Moran and Gordon Ramsay and showcases a finely crafted five-course set menu that changes weekly and is focused on seasonal produce from local suppliers.

a dessert served at Tonic Restaurant, Orange — The menu features classic dishes with contemporary style. (Image: Destination NSW)

Tonic is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday for dinner and Saturday and Sunday for lunch.

a table-top view of food on a plate at Tonic Restaurant, Orange — Treat yourself to a finely crafted five-course set menu at Tonic. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: Corner of Pym St and Victoria St, Millthorpe

4. Antica Australis

Another 20 minutes beyond Millthorpe you’ll find the cute, historic village of Carcoar. There’s so much to love about this quaint corner, but at the top of the list is Antica Australis .

the Antica Australis in Hobart — Step into the intimate dining space at Antica Australis. (Image: Shani Nottingham @rarepearstudio)

Husband and wife duo Paolo and Kelly Picarazzi have brought regional Italy to rural Australia with their innovative five-course dining experience. The seasonal set menu is served at set session times so everyone in the intimate dining space eats at the same time.

a close-up shot of a dish at Antica Australis — Antica Australis serves up innovative plates.

The menu changes monthly with dishes influenced by the ancient region of Ciociaria in central Italy. Antica Australis uses local produce sourced from the region’s boutique producers, with a vegetarian option available. Antica is BYO so bring a bottle from one of the Orange wineries with you.

Antica is often fully booked, so reserve your table well in advance so you don’t miss out. Winter session times are 1pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and in summer there’s also a 7pm seating. Allow two to three hours.

a bowl of food at Antica Australis — Choose a vegan option from the seasonal set menu.

Please note: Antica Australis will be closed from 24 August 2024 throughout September as Paolo and Kelly host their Antica Travel Co tours to Ciociaria.

Address: 2 Belubula St, Carcoar

5. RAKU Izakaya

RAKU Izakaya is somewhat of an icon on the Orange dining scene. Bringing modern Japanese to Orange in 2018, RAKU Izakaya reels you in with its inviting atmosphere and keeps you coming back with its exceptional authentic Japanese dishes and friendly service.

a bento box at RAKU Izakaya — RAKU Izakaya has mastered the art of packed lunch.

There’s a lunch-only ramen menu that’s to die for. Come at dinner time for goodies like wagyu beef tataki, nasu dengaku and twice-cooked pork belly with kimchi confit. Pair the dishes with Japanese sake, Asahi on tap or some expertly made cocktails.

wagyu and roll at RAKU Izakaya — Try the best-seller Wagyu and Roll at RAKU Izakaya.

Address: 129 Summer St, Orange

6. The Greenhouse of Orange

The Greenhouse of Orange is spread over a half-hectare space on the rooftop of the Orange Ex-Services’ Club, in the heart of Orange. A unique, relaxed and diverse environment, it’s made up of indoor and outdoor areas incorporating a restaurant serving gourmet pub meals, a cocktail bar and a ‘family pavilion’ for kids to be entertained. All this adds up to an ideal place to while away the hours on a lazy afternoon.

the light-filled cocktail bar at the Greenhouse of Orange — Snag a seat at the light-filled cocktail bar.

Must-try dishes include roasted sea scallops with confit garlic butter and chorizo, and slow-roasted garlic and thyme chicken with buttered potato mash, charred spring onions and drunken prune jus.

al fresco dining at The Greenhouse of Orange — Dine al fresco at The Greenhouse of Orange.

Address: 231-243 Anson St, Orange

7. Sweet Sour Salt

Sweet Sour Salt is an ever-popular modern Asian restaurant on Summer Street. Set in a funky space with wall art and neon signage, the menu’s clean and vibrant flavours come courtesy of chef Ivan Podres.

the funky dining at Sweet Sour Salt — Sweet Sour Salt is set in a funky space.

Choosing between the a la carte or banquet menus, dishes might include wok-fried field mushrooms, Malaysian chicken curry or Indonesian blackened trout with sambal matah.

wok-fried field mushrooms at Sweet Sour Salt in Orange — The dishes include wok-fried field mushrooms.

Sweet Sour Salt is an adult-only restaurant that has no vegan options, so consider that before booking.

a dimly lit interior of the Sweet Sour Salt restaurant in Orange — Sweet Sour Salt is an adult-only venue.

Address: 179 Anson St, Orange

8. Mr Lim

Expect fresh, bold flavours and a fun atmosphere at Mr Lim . Specialising in Korean-Australian cuisine, restaurateur Sammy Jeon utilises Orange’s impeccable produce, including honey, apples and pork, to create memorable dishes.

the dining atmosphere at Mr Lim, Orange — Settle into Mr Lim’s vibrant and fun dining atmosphere.

Feast on classics like Korean fried chicken and drunken duck and take advantage of Mr Lim’s diverse specials as well. For a bit of everything, there are two banquet menus on offer: Let Jacky Feed You and Let Sammy Feed You.

one of Mr Lim’s signature dishes in Orange — Take advantage of the diverse specials.

Address: 282 Summer St, Orange

9. Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment

From the same great minds behind the now defunct dining experience Lolli Redini Restaurant, Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment has brought a cool, casual atmosphere to Orange.

the entrance door at Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment, Orange — Have a tipple at Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment.

The affordable, community-focused restaurant plates up generous serves, with the menu changing almost weekly based on quality and seasonality.

If you’re just looking for a place to have a tipple, Birdie is also one of Orange’s best bars so enjoy a curated cocktail list and a menu full of local wines, beers and ciders.

a plate of food on the table at Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment — Birdie Noshery and Drinking Establishment plates up generous serves.

Address: 120-122 Summer St, Orange

10. Rowlee Dining and Bar

The newest kid on the Orange dining scene, Rowlee Dining and Bar is the eponymous restaurant by Rowlee Wines, set on its vineyard estate. With four separate spaces – the dining room, the lounge, the bar and the verandah – there’s a space for every occasion in this luxe 100-seat venue.

the verandah at Rowlee Dining and Bar — Nab a spot at the verandah.

Head Chef Simon Furley has created an elevated a la carte menu designed to be shared. Think coal-roasted market fish, dry-aged Bangalow pork chop with fermented rhubarb and honey, and orchard gelato with fennel and olive oil.

a look inside the Rowlee Dining and Bar — Spend an intimate lunch behind the curtains at the Rowlee Dining and Bar.

Rowlee Dining and Bar is open Thursday to Sunday for lunch and Friday and Saturday for dinner.

the restaurant exterior of Rowlee Dining and Bar — Rowlee Dining and Bar is the eponymous restaurant by Rowlee Wines, set on its vineyard estate.

Address: 19 Lake Canobolas Rd, Nashdale

This article was originally written by Imogen Eveson with updates by Emily Murphy.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

10 Orange restaurants guaranteed to satisfy your appetite