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.

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

10 Orange restaurants guaranteed to satisfy your appetite