EAT: Great Regional Restaurants in NSW
Long gone are the days where fine dining was contained only to major capital cities. Now, a unique gourmet experience can be found completely irrespective of location and proximity to the cities – and in my opinion, are some of the absolute best. I love finding an unexpected gem in a beautiful regional town, so whether you’re visiting these towns or fancy an excuse for an incredible experience – here are some of my absolute favourites:
QUEEN ST EATERY - BERRY, NSW
Sexy and sophisticated, Queen St Eatery is an exquisite little French bistro in beautiful Berry that will transport you straight to Paris. The food is extraordinary, the wine list is incredible, the décor is divine, and every detail is perfection right down to the atmospheric Parisian playlists. Classic French bistro food with a modern edge, the ultimate date night spot or elegant lunch with friends. I cannot recommend this restaurant enough, it is an absolute must-visit.
VALENTINA - MERIMBULA, NSW
With sweeping views across the water, be transported to the chic Mediterranean dream that is Valentina in Merimbula on the South Coast of NSW. Incredible coastal Australian fare – the focus here is on delicious local seafood served in simple yet innovative ways. Relaxed and contemporary – this upstairs restaurant is the ultimate spot for a long lazy lunch overlooking the water, or cosy and romantic date overlooking a coastal feast of deliciousness. An impeccable list of dishes, amazing wine list and even better service – I am actually obsessed with Valentina.
BIRCH - MOSS VALE, NSW
Innovative, creative and completely delicious – dining at Birch is such an incredible experience. With a contemporary Australian menu influenced by the seasons and fresh local produce – Birch manages to find the balance between unique and extraordinary, with comfort and wholesome. Welcoming and warm, this is a superb restaurant with so many ways to experience their offerings. From themed feasts, pop-ups, market stalls, at-home dining, events and of course – the divine Birch Store.
GRAZING - GUNDAROO, NSW
The little village of Gundaroo just north of Canberra really packs a punch, and this is definitely in part due to the stunning (and heavily award-winning) Grazing. Serving up a menu of fresh seasonal produce sourced from the region, with an extensive wine list showcase the Canberra region’s finest. With a roaring fire, settle in for a long lunch or cosy dinner and enjoy a classic three course meal of hearty country food.
Small Town Milton - MILTON, NSW
Tucked away off the main street, the tiny but mighty Small Town Milton is a gorgeous bistro and definite must-visit for a modern and elegant dining experience. Shared dishes influenced by the Mediterranean – this food here is creative and honest, full of flavour and interest. With an incredible wine list on offer to enhance the food – this is such a gorgeous spot for date night on the South Coast. And don’t forget to visit Small Town Provisions next door to take a piece of the Small Town magic with you. It has the best wine selection, as well as a hand-picked offering of cheeses, charcuterie and local gourmet goodies to enjoy at home.
ESCHALOT - BERRIMA, NSW
Fresh seasonal produce with a modern twist, served up in generous country portions – Eschalot is award-winning for a reason. At home in a beautiful sandstone cottage in the heart of Berrima in the Southern Highlands, this stunning restaurant is the perfect spot for a long lunch, romantic dinner or an excuse to celebrate with friends. I recommend getting the Chef’s Feed Me menu and just sitting back to enjoy authentic and creative food without pretention.
[To note: this is definitely not an exhaustive list of all the amazing regional restaurants out there, and I would love to keep adding to this list – so let me know your favourites so I can try them out!]
