Your Wagga Wagga Restaurants Guide - Australian Traveller

Is Mudgee too mainstream? Already peeled Orange? When finding your next foodie destination don’t overlook the Riverina region of NSW. It’s time to pay Wagga Wagga a visit.

Approximately five hours’ drive south of Sydney (exactly one Maccas and one fuel stop later), visiting Wagga Wagga isn’t usually the first item on the gourmet travel checklist, but I’m here to let you in on a little secret: much like its local farms, Wagga Wagga has started to bear foodie fruit with these restaurants.

1. The Brew

Come breakfast, brunch or lunch, The Brew is a winner. Housed within an old corner store but featuring a thoroughly modern vibe (and menu), there’s a smattering of tables outside its tiled exterior, but you can’t beat this cafe’s spacious backyard on a sunny day.

Expect dishes such as white chia and red rice pudding with dragon fruit, kiwi, vanilla coyo and puffed grains, or a red bean cassoulet with baked eggs and a French stick on the side, from its seasonal menu. There’s a less exotic menu available for little ones too.

a close-up shot of food at The Brew — Drop by The Brew to refuel.

Address: 67 Coleman St, Turvey Park NSW

2. Mr. Lawrence

Flinging open its doors in October 2021, Mr. Lawrence has helped to heat up the dining scene in Wagga. A cafe, restaurant, and bar all in one, it’s run by two experienced local chefs and turns out some inventive – and immaculately plated – dishes such as spicy burnt butter eggs with speck, and a fried Murray cod burger replete with a pine nut slaw and sriracha mayo.

Variety of food items from Mr Lawrence in wagga Wagga — Mr. Lawrence has helped to heat up the dining scene in Wagga.

Address: 187 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

3. Thirsty Crow Brewery

Know your IPAs from your golden ales? Don’t worry, neither do we! What we do know is the pizzas are absolutely delicious at The Thirsty Crow Brewery . The lads here take the hardship out of decision-making by providing a simple and tasty menu.

Beer being poured at the Thirsty Crow Brewery, Wagga Wagga. (Image: Destination NSW) — Pizza and beer? Yes, please! (Image: Destination NSW)

Once you’ve ordered your pizza, ask them for the best pairing beer and head out to the sun-drenched beer garden. Warning, keep your calendar as clear as the weather as this could potentially turn into an all-afternoon affair.

Mexican beef and bacon pizza on the bar menu at Thirsty Crow Brewery, Wagga Wagga — Try their Mexican beef and bacon pizza. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 153 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

4. The Artisan Baker

If you’re visiting Wagga in winter then the Artisan Baker on Morgan Street is the perfect place to warm up with a bowl full of soup and a fresh, crusty baguette. The bakery rotates through a delicious selection of daily soup specials, including French onion soup, potato and leek, Moroccan lentil and more. You can also choose from a selection of French pastries and sugar-laden treats to enjoy for dessert.

Address: 2/189 Morgan St, Wagga Wagga NSW

5. Trail Street Coffee Shop

The Trail Street Coffee Shop is really an all-rounder: come for breakfast, lunch or just a cup of one of the best coffees in town. Lunch is the perfect mix of hearty burgers, salads, nourish bowls and sandwiches. We’d recommend the salmon poke bowl with seasoned black rice, pickled purple cabbage and cucumber, charred corn, avocado, Kewpie mayo and edamame beans. If you’re wanting something a bit greasier, go for the fried chicken burger.

the signature chicken burger with fries at Trail St Coffee Shop, Wagga Wagga — Grab a bite of the signature chicken burger at Trail St Coffee Shop. (Image: Justine Brentenall)

Stopping in for breakfast? The butter croissant French toast with strawberry syrup, lemon curd, berries, wafer crumbs and double cream is the ultimate indulgent breakfast, or if you’re more of a savoury lover go for the pumpkin breakfast salad – it’s also on the healthier side. If you’re searching for the perfect cafe (and coffee), it’s also worth checking out our list of the best cafes in Wagga Wagga.

a hand pouring milk over coffee at Trail St Coffee Shop, Wagga Wagga — Their coffee is a must-try. (Image: Justine Brentenall)

Address: 34 Trail St, Wagga Wagga NSW

6. Pastorale By Meccanico

Open since March 2021, this Wagga Wagga restaurant is the progeny of Meccanico’s owners Richard Moffatt and Karl Hulford. Pastorale is secreted away within the heritage-listed Riverine Club and was dreamed up with the lofty goal of becoming Wagga’s first hatted restaurant.

Interior of Pastorale in Wagga Wagga — Pastorale was dreamed up with the lofty goal of becoming Wagga’s first hatted restaurant.

While the menu changes to reflect the seasons, diners at Pastorale can always rely on perfectly charred and flame-licked meat and fish, courtesy of the restaurant’s custom-built Mibrasa charcoal oven. There’s even a sommelier on-hand to make choosing the perfect drop to accompany your meal a walk in the park too.

Head down on a Wednesday night to enjoy the venue’s famous Pasta Club – for $55 per head, you’ll enjoy an antipasto share board piled high with cured meats, local cheeses and crusty bread, a (very generous) bowl of the handmade pasta of the day, plus a glass of wine. When we say generous, we mean it. We struggled to finish, we were so full!

The exterior of Pastorale by Meccanico. (Image: Pastorale by Meccanico) — The Pastorale menu changes to reflect the seasons.

Address: Riverine Club, Cnr of Tarcutta Street &, Sturt St, Wagga Wagga NSW

7. The Magpies Nest

Head out towards the university and you’ll find a little treasure called The Magpies Nest in the northern suburb of Estella. Where do we even start? This gorgeous little venue has an ever-changing menu packed full of delicious creations with a heavy focus on local produce.

the building exterior of The Magpies Nest, Wagga Wagga — The Magpies Nest is situated in the northern suburb of Estella.

Quality? Top-notch. Atmosphere? Warm and inviting. THIS is Wagga’s best restaurant. We ate the Riverina lamb, roasted beets, pearl couscous, pepitas, pumpkin and kale with a beetroot jus. Deluxe.

a close-up shot of food plating at The Magpies Nest, Wagga Wagga — Try the appetising dishes at The Magpies Nest.

Address: 20 Pine Gully Rd, Estella NSW

8. Cottontail Restaurant & Winery

Take a short drive just outside of the town centre for a dinner on the deck at the family-owned-and-run Cottontail Restaurant & Winery . Order from a selection of delicious wood-fired pizzas or go all out and treat yourself to a three-course spread of baked Camembert cheese with salted maple glaze, macadamia nuts and flatbread, followed up with crispy pork belly and a side of black pudding bon bon and broccolini, and top it all off with passionfruit panna cotta for dessert.

Address: 562 Pattersons Rd, Eunanoreenya NSW

9. Birdhouse Bar

Now that you’ve eaten your way around Wagga Wagga, finish your day off at the Birdhouse Bar. Rumour has it that the twice-cooked chicken burger and fries are incredible, but for us – the wine list is where it’s at. Plenty of people will recommend the cocktails and the menu is impressive but there’s something about sitting inside on a chilly Wagga day with a big glass of local red that brings the trip to a perfect close.

Address: 246 Baylis St, Wagga Wagga NSW

10. Meccanico Espresso + Wine

A rather suave little space next to the Murrumbidgee River, Meccanico Espresso + Wine takes plenty of its culinary and design cues from Europe. You can stop by for brekkie, lunch or a late afternoon tipple any day of the week, but this smart-casual restaurant really shines after hours.

Linger over a bottle of New or Old World white from its extensive wine list with friends, and order a bevy of tapas dishes to share (think oysters Kilpatrick, chicken liver parfait and organic local olives).

an outdoor dining setup at Meccanico Espresso + Wine, Wagga Wagga — Dine next to the Murrumbidgee River at Meccanico Espresso + Wine.

Address: 171 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

11. Thaigga

When it comes to Wagga Wagga restaurants, Thaigga is where you want to head if you have a craving for Thai cuisine. The fusion menu has all of your favourites – coconut prawns, massaman beef and chilli basil stir-fry are all present and accounted for, and are full of flavour. But those feeling more adventurous should try the Crying Thaigga, a juicy Riverina Angus scotch fillet served with namjim jaew sauce, or the Drunk Duck – roasted and served with Thai red wine sauce.

a sticky pork dish at Thaigga restaurant — Savour the tenderness of Thaigga’s sticky pork.

Thaigga is popular, though – it’s best to book ahead to ensure you get a table. Missed out? The restaurant also offers takeaway via their website.

a wide variety of dishes at Thaigga restaurant — Pick from an array of dishes.

Address: 107 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

12. Romano’s

Romano’s Hotel houses one of the best pub restaurants in Wagga Wagga. The menu is filled with classic Australian pub fare, from counter meal classics like chicken parmigiana, beer battered fish and crumbed lamb cutlets to an extensive steak list, all sourced from the Riverina district.

There are nightly meal specials Monday through Thursday, and if cosy, winter comfort food is your thing, head in on Sunday night for the very affordable $14 roast of the day. Looking for more Wagga Wagga pubs worth visiting? Take a look at our full guide here.

Address: 81 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

13. Uneke Lounge

A popular breakfast venue in Wagga Wagga, Uneke Lounge is also a great spot to settle in for a long lunch. The expansive warehouse space (which has housed various Wagga Wagga restaurants since the 1950s) leans on its history with rustic, repurposed timber tables and mismatched chairs.

a close-up shot of food at Uneke Lounge, Wagga Wagga — Enjoy plant-based food at Uneke Lounge.

The corn fritters are a menu favourite, and vegans will love the plant-based protein burger, a toasted brioche bun piled high with a plant-based patty and all the accompaniments, topped with homemade relish and creamy plant-based mayo.

a plate of vegetable salad at Uneke Lounge — Uneke Lounge curates diet-friendly alternatives.

Address: 140 Fitzmaurice St, Wagga Wagga NSW

14. The Oakroom

Located inside Townhouse, one of Wagga Wagga’s most popular hotels, is The Oakroom – a fine dining restaurant with a focus on modern Australian cuisine and local meats. Naturally, you’ll find Riverina Angus steak on the menu, as well as lamb sourced from nearby Junee.

a plate of food with a glass of cocktail on the table at The Oakroom, Wagga Wagga — Dine modern Aussie cuisine at The Oakroom.

The 24-hour pork belly is not to be missed if you’re a fan of the classic dish – it arrives perfectly crisp alongside winter comforts like duck fat potatoes, spiced pear and roasted greens. The wine menu is also extensive, particularly when it comes to reds (our cooler-month favourites).

a plate of dessert at The Oakroom — Satisfy your sweet tooth.

Address: 70 Morgan St, Wagga Wagga NSW

15. Mate’s Gully

If you’re in Wagga Wagga on a Friday or Saturday night, book a table at Mate’s Gully . The farm to table restaurant has a short but delicious menu that changes seasonally, plus a selection of woodfired pizzas on offer.

Mate’s Gully is best enjoyed during the warmer months, when you can take advantage of the stunning gardens and veranda space. If you’re in town during winter however, the restaurant is also open for breakfast and lunch, with many of the lunch dishes mirroring the a la carte dinner menu (try the lamb curry, you won’t be sorry!).

Address: 38 Morrow St, Wagga Wagga NSW

16. Wagga Wagga Country Club

On the outskirts of Wagga Wagga nestled next to Lake Albert is Wagga Wagga Country Club, and in the centre of its expansive golf course you’ll find Marco’s On Albert , a fine dining restaurant run by a team of locals and internationally-trained talent.

The menu is seasonal and simple, with five mains on offer – but it’s the fresh pasta made daily in-house that caught our eye, like the ricotta gnocchi with lamb ragu, tomato and grana pandano.

Fish on potatoes at Marco’s On Albert in the Wagga Wagga Country Club. — Dine at Marco’s On Albert. (Image: Wagga Wagga Country Club)

Address: 57 Plumpton Rd, Lake Albert NSW

17. The Charles

Previously known as The Roundabout restaurant, The Charles has rebranded to encompass both its accommodation offering and its dining room. This Wagga Wagga restaurant hasn’t lost any of its charm, however. If anything, it’s added to it – there is now the newly renovated courtyard for al fresco dining during the warmer months.

The Charles’ menu is organised into three, five or seven-course options, starting at $79 per person. You’ll find plenty of NSW-sourced produce on the menu, such as Myee quail and Murray Valley pork (don’t miss the Coolamon Cheese Co. board for dessert). If you’re going all-out, wine pairing starts at $49, with a local and ‘iconic’ wine selection to choose from.

Plating up a fancy dish from The Charles in Wagga Wagga — The Charles hasn’t lost any of its charm.

Address: 82 Tarcutta St, Wagga Wagga NSW

The original version of this article was written by Chloe Cann and has since been updated by Melissa Mason.

Discover vibrant culture and creativity, gorgeous nature spots and more in lively Newcastle.

Newcastle/Muloobinba has a lot going for it beyond its big skies and beautiful beaches. The city’s creative types are now heading downtown, taking over and transforming warehouses and terraces to offer a more alternative vibe. From its nightlife to secret swimming spots, art to architecture, here’s our insider’s guide to Newcastle in New South Wales.

1. Learn to sail on Newcastle Harbour

The harbour has always shaped Newcastle, so it seems like the most obvious place to start your weekend. Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club offers a range of programs that provide instruction for both novice and experienced sailors. This is an inspired classroom that sets off past the Honeysuckle Foreshore up the Hunter River, with views towards a seemingly infinite vista of blue stretching to the horizon. It’s the perfect way to savour your time by the sea. Other water activities include surfing, swimming in one of the secret ocean baths or whale-watching with CoastXP .

Aerial view of Newcastle Harbour. — Join Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club’s programs. (Image: City of Newcastle)

2. Underground jazz scene

Follow the lively sound of the saxophone bubbling up to find The Underground . The popular basement-level bar, with its dim lighting and speakeasy aesthetic, schedules live jazz performances every Tuesday and Thursday. Newcastle is known around the country for supporting live music and this late-night New York-style jazz bar is, like the city itself, both approachable and sophisticated. For fans of live music, Queen’s Wharf Hotel , King Street Newcastle , Mad Poet and The Lucky Hotel are all popular pubs for their roster of live music.

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3. The city as a canvas

The streets of Newcastle present like an outdoor art gallery , adding beauty to the everyday with large-scale works by artists such as Fintan Magee, Inari Meyers, Tom Henderson and Sophia Flegg. Hire a Flash E-bike and pedal around the streets to find treasures such as Bronte Naylor’s Mirror Ocean in Civic Square or Sky & Ocean at South Newcastle Beach Skate Park. You can also join Newy Tour Co.’s Discover Newcastle tour to explore city highlights, architectural gems and street art with an expert guide.

Friends take in Newcastle Street Art. — Admire stunning works of art displayed all around you. (Image: Destination NSW)

4. An artist’s view of Newcastle

There’s a real sense of optimism around Newcastle, stemming from its many grassroots art galleries and organisations. The city is home to an eclectic array of artists who gravitate toward different mediums; see their works on show at independent galleries such as The Lock-Up , which operated as a police station from 1861 until 1982, and Lighthouse Arts Newcastle in the light-filled cottages on Nobbys Head/Whibayganba. Stop by The Creator Incubator to see the Little and Big gallery spaces. Newcastle Art Gallery will soon reopen after a recent expansion, so keep an eye out.

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5. Newcastle after dark

The small bars confetti’d around Newcastle are a sign of the times. Visitors to the compact city will find a concentration of bars within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail. The after-dark experience, which includes theatre and live music, is designed for visitors who are in search of the offbeat and want to celebrate the city’s creativity. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, the bars that dot most neighbourhoods will tempt you with everything from happy hour to their alt attitude.

A bartender expertly crafting a drink, with a stunning library of spirits in the background. — Enjoy a night out at a lively bar. (Image: City of Newcastle)

6. Indulge in great gastronomy

Newcastle’s proximity to the Hunter Valley has helped establish it as a sophisticated getaway for gourmands with a passion for provenance. Dining options in the city are diverse, with everything from casual cafes to cantina-style Mexican eateries such as Antojitos , through to fine diners such as Flotilla and Jana Restaurant & Bar at QT Newcastle . Visit during Newcastle Food Month to get a snapshot of the local culinary scene – you can take note of the many world-class restaurants and cafes that warrant a return visit. Humbug , Peregrin and Bistro Penny should also be on your radar.

The dining area at Flotilla in Newcastle NSW. — Savour a world-class dining experience at Flotilla. (Image: Flotilla)

7. Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley is another great example of Newcastle’s new wow factor. Staying at the hotel – in the heart of the cultural centre – makes exploring a breeze, with vintage bikes for guests who want to check out the city streets on two wheels. The design-savvy Crystalbrook Collection reimagined the Roundhouse building while adhering to its ethos of sustainable luxury. The hotel is also a magnet for foodies, with the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant and cocktail bar, Romberg’s, two of the best spots in the city for wining and dining.

The Roundhouse by Crystalbrook Collection. — Step into the reworked Roundhouse by Crystalbrook. (Image: Crystalbrook Kingsley)

8. Newcastle’s creative side on show

Save the date for New Annual , a festival of art, music and ideas from 26 September – 5 October. The program is jam-packed with 10 days of art, culture and creativity. This year’s festival will celebrate the power art has to connect people. Expect to see a diverse program including music, theatre, workshops, and performances in iconic Newcastle locations. Visitors will find a concentration of events within a small radius, all of which are within easy walking distance or accessible via the light rail.

Dancers performing gracefully, accompanied by a live orchestra. — Celebrate migration, community and belonging at New Annual.

Plan your next trip to offbeat Newcastle.

17 best Wagga Wagga restaurants for every meal of the day