20 of the best Jindabyne restaurants and eateries 

From casual and lively pubs to funky small bars and iconic bakeries, we’ve found some of Jindabyne’s best eateries.

The alpine town of Jindabyne in the Snowy Mountains is base camp to Australia’s highest peak, Mt Kosciuszko. With ample cafes and restaurants at your fingertips, it makes for a fuss-free stay near the mountain, year-round. Here are some of the best Jindabyne restaurants.

The shortlist

Family-Friendly Spot: Bacco Italian Restaurant
Best for Brunch: Birchwood
Best for Large Groups: The Banjo Paterson Inn
Best Date Night: Pinot’s Wine Bar

1. The Banjo Paterson Inn

a cocktail drink at Banjo Patterson Inn, Jindabyne — Sip on elevated cocktails at the stone-clad hotel. (Image: The Banjo Patterson Inn)

This alpine-style stone-clad hotel is open year-round is a favourite gathering place for both locals and travellers. Clancy’s Brasserie on the ground floor offers a pub-style menu with classics such as chicken schnitzel, Caesar salad, a grill selection and its famous ‘Snowy’ trout.

In The Overflow upstairs, you’ll find burgers and pizzas. It’s also home to Musters Bar, which spills out onto an outdoor terrace with views of Lake Jindabyne and regular live tunes, and microbrewery Kosciuszko Brewhouse, where the original Kosciuszko Pale and limited-edition seasonal ales are on tap.

Cuisine: Pub fare / Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 1 Kosciuszko Road, Jindabyne

2. Bacco Italian Restaurant

pizza at Bacco Italian Restaurant, Jindabyne — The menu features hearty Italian dishes. (Image: Bacco Italian Restaurant)

Bacco has been serving delicious Italian cuisine for 25 years. It’s a rustic, cosy spot right in the centre of Jindabyne to enjoy a la carte dining – think pizzas, pastas and mains such as pollo bacco and veal scallopini, topped off by affogato or homely lumberjack cake for dessert.

Or you can order pizza and pasta from the takeaway menu to eat back at your accommodation or perhaps by Lake Jindabyne, which is a few minutes’ walk from here, during warmer months.

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Rustic

Location: 10 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

3. Birchwood

Fuel up for a day on the slopes or traversing the Snowy’s best bushwalks at Birchwood. In the heart of town, this cosy cafe serves wholesome breaky dishes such as granola, avo on toast, and Turkish eggs, as well as all-day options including a B&E roll and toasties. For lunch, a creamy soup, poke bowls and burgers are added to the menu. Add a coffee made with Single O beans or a house-brewed kombucha to sip on – or peruse the booze options after 10am. We love Birchy’s Lunch Packs, made especially for days up on the mountain: think a jam-packed sandwich, fresh-squeezed juice, veggie sticks and fruit, and a store-baked sweet slice.

Cuisine: Modern Australian fusion

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: Unit 3/3 Gippsland St, Jindabyne

4. Cocina Taqueria

drinks at Cocina Taqueria, Jindabyne — Cocina Taqueria celebrates tequila, mezcal and margaritas.

Here at Cocina Taqueria, they encourage long dinners, deep conversations and losing track of time. Add in an entire menu dedicated to tequila, mezcal and margaritas and we don’t have any problem doing that. The intimate, dimly lit restaurant has subtle Mexican styling, while the menu is traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist.

There are tacos and burritos, as well as small and large plates such as ceviche, jalapeno poppers and Oaxacan lamb barbacoa.

Cuisine: Mexican

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Intimate

Location: Shop 5/33 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

5. Brumby Bar & Grill

pub favourites at Brumby Bar & Grill, Jindabyne — Savour pub favourites at Brumby Bar & Grill.

A stalwart of Jindabyne since 1982, Brumby Bar & Grill serves pub favourites such as chicken schnitzel, beer-battered fish and chips, burgers and steak. Don’t let the outdated exterior deter you: inside the dining room is warm and stylish, complete with a stone fireplace for the cooler months.

Cuisine: Pub fare / Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: Cnr Kosciuszko Road &, Kalkite St, Jindabyne

6. Takayama Restaurant and Bar

Sit down for some Japanese izakaya in the mountains at this town centre restaurant. The menu spans small plates such as edamame, sushi rolls and pork gyoza, to large share plates including karaage, katsu and tataki beef. Or order some piping hot ramen for one. Top off the experience with a glass of Sapporo or a yuzu cocktail.

Cuisine: Japanese

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Sleek

Location: Shop 19/5 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

7. Jindabyne Bowling Club

Who doesn’t love a casual dinner at the bowlo? This one is perfect for families, not only for the affordable food but also because there’s an indoor playground that the kids (and parents) will love, no matter the weather outside. Chow down on a burger, prawn cutlets, chicken parmi, a steak sandwich and all your other pub favourites, and try your hand at trivia on Thursdays. There’s also a courtesy bus that services Jindabyne and its surrounds – a bonus when you’re on holiday and want to enjoy a drink while out at dinner.

Cuisine: Pub fare / Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 2 Bay St, Jindabyne

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8. Jindabyne Brewing Co

a glass of beer at Jindabyne Brewing Co — Enjoy a glass of cold beer at Jindabyne Brewing Co.

After a day on the mountain, ski instructor Karl Veiss was enjoying a beer in a hot tub at a friend’s place when he had the idea to start up a family-friendly brewery. And so, Jindabyne Brewing was born – a warehouse-style brewery tucked away in a quieter street of town, on a property that has views of Lake Jindabyne.

Sample the five beers on tap – including Alpine Red X, a dark lager, and Hefe Veiss, a German wheat beer – and order from the succulent meat skewers menu with a side of house chips and aioli.

Cuisine: Mediterranean share plates / Grilled meats

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 5 Nettin Cct, Jindabyne

9. Panorama Thai

Just around the corner from Jindabyne Brewing, this Thai restaurant is tucked away in an unassuming motel. But if you’re craving Thai cuisine, you won’t be disappointed. The dining room is simple but light and airy and has an incredible view of Lake Jindabyne. The menu is concise but full of extremely flavoursome dishes such as Massaman beef and chilli basil eggplant. The pad kee mao is delicious, but they don’t lie when they say spicy.

Cuisine: Thai

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 16 Nettin Cct, Jindabyne

10. Sundance Bakery

bread on display at Sundance Bakehouse, Jindabyne — Stock up on freshly baked bread from Sundance Bakehouse.

Just follow the crowds to this cult bakery, located within the Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre in Jindy – the flagship store of three in the Snowies, the other two are in Bullocks Flat and Perisher. Grab a takeaway coffee and a freshly made pastry, toastie, pie or roll to pack for a day on the mountain.

Cuisine: Bakery

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 6 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

11. Nimmitabel Bakery

the Nimmitabel Bakery, Jindabyne — Pull up a chair for a quick coffee and pastry at Nimmitabel Bakery.

Founded in the town of Nimmitabel, east of Jindabyne, this bakery has been serving freshly baked goods using traditional methods since 1950. Its Jindabyne outpost in Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre has a cosy fireplace, perfect to sit around and enjoy a coffee made with Seven Miles’ Black Mountain coffee beans, with a brekky wrap or a homemade pie. You can also order a hamper, filled with pies or pastries, or some snacks from the pantry, to enjoy while up on the mountain.

Cuisine: Bakery

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: Shop 3 Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, 13 Kalkite St, Jindabyne

12. Parc Cafe

breakfast and coffee at Parc Cafe, Jindabyne — Parc Cafe serves up a range of delectable all-day dining options. (Image: Nicole Mcleod Photography)

Adjoining the Snowy Region Visitor Centre in town, Parc serves an all-day menu featuring a big brekkie, burritos, sambos and wraps. Pouring Madding Crowd coffee, organic juices and smoothies, alongside local brews from Jindabyne Brewing and Shut the Gate wines. Sit out in the sunshine – where, during summer, they occasionally have live music – or retreat inside when it’s subzero temps out.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 49 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

13. Pinot’s Wine Bar

dining at Pinot’s Wine Bar, Jindabyne — Indulge in a comforting menu in a relaxed setting. (Image: Pinot’s Wine Bar)

There are plenty of lively pubs in Jindabyne, but if it’s a glass of wine in a dimly lit and elegant bar, then Pinot’s is your place. Pinot’s has a succinct wine menu, a rotating selection of craft beer on tap and cocktails. These are to be enjoyed with bar bites such as toasted brioche with ricotta and white anchovies, pumpkin and truffle arancini balls or a cheese board. And come winter, things get even cosier, with the fireplace roaring.

Cuisine: Bar bites

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Intimate

Location: Shop 18b Nuggets Crossing Shopping Centre, Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

14. Holly Go Lightly

a chili margarita at Holly Go Lightly, Jindabyne — Order chilli margaritas at Holly Go Lightly.

Holly Go Lightly is a good-time diner serving pubby fare. There’s American-style poutine, fried cheese balls and burgers such as maple bacon, beef and cheeseburger.

Cuisine: Pub fare / American

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Relaxed

Location: 6 Thredbo Terrace, Jindabyne

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15. Jindabyne Emporium

They call themselves the good booze merchants for their curated selection of craft and indie beers, natural and lo-fi wines and Aussie spirits. Come by Jindabyne Emporium and get acquainted with the drinks menu during Happy Hour, every day from 4pm to 6pm.

The menu is super casual, with a solid offering of burgers, tacos and flavourful bar snacks, from pork belly nuggets to cheeseburger spring rolls. The bar-style venue also has a view over Lake Jindabyne from its central location in town.

Cuisine: Pub fare / Mexican

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: Level 1, Shop 14/33 Kosciusko Road, Jindabynev

16. Stacks Pizza

the Stacks Pizza, Jindabyne — Grab a slice of your choice at Stacks Pizza. (Image: Robbie Duncan)

Pizza happily fills most bellies. Newly opened Stacks Pizza is a self-described hole-in-the-wall that offers both takeaway, by the slice, and dine-in with BYO wine. What more could you want!?

The mouthwatering menu includes classics such as ham and pineapple, supreme and meat lovers, plus other flavours including chorizo, boscaiola and Pontiac potato.

Cuisine: Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 1 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

17. Beach Burrito Co

There may be no beaches in the Snowy Mountains, but the coastal-style Beach Burrito Co brand has morphed into the perfect apres ski spot here in Jindy. One of five locations, the Jindabyne outpost has a menu filled with tasty Mexican street fare – tacos, quesadillas, burritos – as well as tequila, margaritas, sangria and beer. There’s also a kids’ menu, including a DIY taco kit.

The casual diner set right in the heart of town also boasts an epic view over Lake Jindabyne, from its bench-style tables that are perfect for groups and mingling with other mountain-goers.

Cuisine: Mexican

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: Level 3 / Shop 5/3 Kosciuszko Rd, Jindabyne

18. Bebita

Mexican lunch at Bebita, Jindabyne — Order classic Mexican favourites at Bebita.

In the backstreets of Jindabyne, this wholesome fresh food cafe serves up brunch, lunch and dinner – think coffee, juice, salads, nachos, burrito bowls and tacos. They also make killer cheesecakes, with ever-changing flavours such as mint choc, caramilk, Kit Kat, which look just as incredible as they taste. Nab a table on the outdoor terrace in the sunshine and linger longer with a BYO bottle of wine or beer.

Cuisine: Mexican

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 1 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

19. Embers Fireside Grill

Located within Horizons Lake Jindabyne – formerly Rydges – Embers Fireside Grill is an elegant restaurant open for dinner. Just as its name suggests, there’s a roaring fireplace come the winter months.

The newly rebranded hotel has elevated the dining menu, focusing on Australian ingredients with some Asian inspiration. Choose from dishes such as karaage chicken, sesame duck, fillet mignon and chilli garlic prawn pasta.

Cuisine: Modern Australian / Asian

Average price: $$$

Atmosphere: Elegant

Location: 1 Snowy River Ave, Jindabyne

20. The Market Jindabyne

The Market Jindabyne exterior — Find purveyors of the best local produce at The Market Jindabyne.

In the centre of town, The Market Jindabyne is the place to pick up hyper-local and good quality produce and supplies, such as cured meats, cheeses, honey, preserves and organic fruit and veggies.

Settle into the cosy lounge to order a coffee, matcha or juice. Pair it with a toastie – arguably the best in town – made with local sourdough, a pastry or a smoothie bowl. They also offer taster plates, which allows you to try some of the produce in store before you buy.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Casual

Location: 6/141 Snowy River Avenue, Jindabyne

Discover the best things to do in Jindabyne

Think you know Lismore? Think again. From pop-up feasts to a buzzing nightlife to a thriving arts scene, discover a new side of the Northern Rivers.

Scratch beneath the surface of Lismore and its surrounding villages and you’ll discover a side of the Northern Rivers many travellers don’t expect. Here lies a region bursting with creativity, where vibrant street art, innovative eateries and enriching cultural experiences shape everyday life. Best of all, it’s authentic, and can be enjoyed without the crowds. Here are eight reasons why it deserves a closer look.

1. Nights come to life

Lismore's vibrant villages have Patrons enjoying a night out at Eltham Hotel. — Stay out a little longer and experience the vibrant nightlife. (Image: Visit Lismore)

The Lismore region stirs after the sun sets, with wine bars, pub gigs, pop-up dinners and live music events at atmospheric country pubs and halls. The Eltham Hotel is a hinterland institution, its verandah regularly echoing with rootsy live music. Nimbin Bush Theatre’s Sonic Bloom nights bring pop-up dinners, films and DJ sets. The Channon Tavern hosts weekend sessions, while Il Carretto’s pizza nights fill Clunes Cafe on Thursday nights and Bexhill Hall on Fridays. Rider Taco Pop Up also brings a laid-back Mexican feast to Clunes, where guests spread out on the grass or gather in the old hall to share freshly made tacos.

2. A thriving arts and culture scene

Racing on Molesworth Steet, Lismore for the BBCC Lismore Cycling Festival. Lismore's vibrant villages is filled with murals. — Follow the Art & Culture Trail. (Image: Visit Lismore)

The Northern Rivers has long attracted artists, makers and free thinkers, and nowhere is that creative energy more evident than in Lismore and its neighbouring hamlets. The city’s Art & Culture Trail shines a spotlight on the city’s flourishing arts scene, linking galleries, studios and public art across the region. Start at the Lismore Regional Gallery, which has a dynamic mix of contemporary works and community-focused exhibitions. Also keep an eye out for events at The Quad, an open-air space that lights up with live music, projections and family-friendly events. Beyond the city, discover the colourful street murals of Nimbin, browse local art at Blue Knob Gallery or get your hands dirty during a clay workshop at Silt Studio.

3. Boutique shopping

Inside Two Ravens Antiques & Collectables in Lismore's vibrant villages. — Uncover one-of-a-kind finds. (Image: Visit Lismore)

For travellers who love discovering independent labels and one-of-a-kind finds, Lismore and its nearby villages offer a treasure trove of boutiques. Here, you’ll find everything from clothes and hand-crafted trinkets to books and homewares, each store reflecting the personality of its makers and curators. Highlights include Hanging Rock Flowers, where seasonal blooms meet beautifully chosen artisan gifts, and Two Ravens Antique and Vintage, where a collection of objects whisper stories of the past. Little Polli and the Blackbird offers whimsical fashion and homewares, while Folk Modern champions eclectic textiles and global finds and Valley of the Craftsmen showcases refined handmade artistry.

4. Diverse food offerings

Bartenders at the The Levee Lounge and Bar, Lismore — Settle in for an evening of great drinks and live tunes. (Image: Visit Lismore)

Lismore’s dining scene is celebrated for its paddock-to-plate produce, global cuisines and cafe culture. At Two Mates Brewing small-batch beers are crafted for easy afternoons, often best enjoyed with a food truck bite, while The Levee Lounge and Bar brings a touch of Melbourne-style polish to town, with cocktails and wine served against the hum of live music.

Heritage bones meet a modern buzz at The Bank Cafe & Espresso, while smoked meats and fried chicken take centre stage at The Stockpot Kitchen. Housed in a former butter factory, Channon Tavern is the ideal place to while away the day on the grass by Terania Creek, and the The Eltham Hotel offers an upscale food menu with old school charm.

Find Annies Country Bakery in Modanville on Lismore’s Great Pie Trail, serving award-winning pies, open every day, it’s a great stop on a scenic drive on route to nearby national parks and Rocky Creek Dam. Or pop into Clunes Cafe for regular hosted dinners, each with its own unique flair. Listen to live music while you’re there, and maybe even join in a line dance.

5. Alternative lifestyles reign

Streetscape of Nimbin with buskers, Northern Rivers — Discover a place where freedom, art and community are part of everyday life. (Image: The Legendary Pacific Coast)

This area has long been a free-spirited community, where counterculture values and creative expression shape everyday life. Its roots trace back to the 1973 Aquarius Festival, when thousands gathered in the hills near Nimbin and the one-time dairy town’s once-quiet streets were painted in kaleidoscopic colour. Many never left, establishing communes and laying the foundations of a community built on sustainability and freedom. Events such as the annual Nimbin MardiGrass festival keep its activist, grassroots spirit alive, while continuing to welcome diverse travellers in search of something a little different.

6. Breathtaking nature on the doorstep

Person enjoying a walk through the rainforest in Nightcap National Park. — Step into a world of ancient forests. (Image: Visit Lismore)

Lismore acts as the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular ancient Gondwana rainforests and untouched wilderness. Nearby Nightcap National Park offers UNESCO-listed rainforest walks and waterfalls, while Rocky Creek Dam is a tranquil spot for picnics and birdlife – and you may even spot a platypus if your timing is right. Whian Whian State Conservation Area reveals lush subtropical trails and hidden swimming holes, while the Northern Rivers Rail Trail winds through farmland and forest, passing historic railway bridges along the way.

7. Boutique stays

Contained in Nimbin Accommodation. — Experience award-winning eco stays. (Image: Contained in Nimbin)

Accommodation in the Lismore region tends to favour character over gloss, with stays that trade uniform luxury for a stronger sense of place and personality. Lismore Gateway Motel and Invercauld House offer easy comfort close to Lismore CBD, while The Eltham Hotel pairs a lively pub atmosphere with individually designed rooms that reflect the building’s heritage character. Nightcap Ridge secluded luxury eco retreat and Rummery Park Campground in Whian Whian State Conservation Area, and Contained in Nimbin’s award-winning eco cabins, all bring you closer to nature.

8. Form community connections

Crowds enjoying the Lismore Lantern Parade on the North Coast. — Celebrate winter solstice at the Lismore Lantern Parade. (Image: Visit Lismore)

If you are wanting to immerse yourself more in the community, there are some standout events that embrace Lismore’s individuality. Lismore is known for its markets, so they’re a great place to start. The fire twirling at Lismore’s weekly Thursday produce markets makes for a particularly fun spectacle.

Friday Meet and Make offers relaxed crafting at The Artisans Table, while Fire Twirling in The Quad delivers a high energy evening spectacle. The legendary Tropical Fruits New Years Eve Festival is a bold celebration of inclusion; Lismore Lantern Parade glows through streets with handmade lanterns on the winter solstice and Italian festival LisAmore! brings music and romance to the town.

Start planning the ultimate getaway at visitlismore.com.au

20 of the best Jindabyne restaurants and eateries

From casual and lively pubs to funky small bars and iconic bakeries, we’ve found some of Jindabyne’s best eateries.

The shortlist

1. The Banjo Paterson Inn

2. Bacco Italian Restaurant