New multi-cultural cuisine, cycling tours and more

WE’RE always on the lookout for good cuisine and new experiences when travelling.

Whether it’s a hole-in-the-wall spot or a Michelin-starred restaurant, we love tasting local cuisine as we explore Australia.

In April 2022 we were excited to hear that across NSW there’s a new sense of connection as city chefs step inside country kitchens and multi-cultural cuisine flourishes on the Central Coast.

And, from restored pubs to cycling tours and high tea on the coast, there are a lot of new things happening in the state.

We spoke to Destination NSW and this is what they had to say.

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Cuisine

Savour flavour on the Central Coast

A swag of feel-good new eateries has launched on the Central Coast.

On The Entrance waterfront, Tango tempts locals and travellers alike with vibrant South American cuisine.

At Ettalong, Chica Chica serves Latin American cuisine and innovative cocktails, while Innerglow Kiosk specialises in restorative small-batch cold-pressed juices.

City chef ventures to Byron Bay

The Eltham Hotel in the lush Byron Bay hinterland welcomes sought-after Melbourne chef Tim Goegan into the kitchen, supporting culinary star Andrew McConnell.

The team works closely with local farmers to enrich their cuisine with beach-to-plate produce such as saltbush and seaweed butter.

Villas in the vineyard

New luxury villas grace the beautiful Leogate Estate at the foot of the Brokenback Ranges in the Hunter Valley.

The inviting villas have decks with dramatic views of the Brokenback Vineyard and elegant interiors with a luxurious king-size bed, separate lounge and kitchenette.

Urban hot spot

In Newcastle’s trendy suburb of Wickham, popular coffee house, Dark Horse Wickham is collaborating with local fashion label House of Lita.

Inside the bold black-and-white space, there are dreamy clothing designs, classic cuisine and of course, Dark Horse Blend coffee.

Fine dine at the brewery

Murray’s Craft Brewing Co. in Port Stephens is launching a fine-dining experience, Restaurant William, with executive chef Kumar KC, formerly of Sydney’s Spice Temple.

The menu will evolve weekly with a fusion of international flavours such as Chinese and Korean, with a modern Australian bent.

High tea in Port Stephens

Also, at Murray’s Craft Brewing Co., visitors can book a sophisticated high tea.

Seated inside the whimsical Agnes High Tea Pavillion, guests devour delicate morsels by a talented Singaporean pastry chef, with accompanying drinks packages including sparkling wine, Champagne or cocktails.

Matt Moran’s new country pub

Celebrity chef Matt Moran has bought the historic Rockley Pub, south of Bathurst — the small village of Rockley is close to Moran’s heart as he has deep family connections to the region.

Moran has recently opened the front bar, with hearty counter meals and craft beer, and harbours big plans for the rest of the venue.

New digs in Narooma

Merivale has been acquiring South Coast venues in the coastal hamlet of Narooma.

One of the town’s oldest buildings, Lynch’s Hotel, is the latest to be purchased by the hospitality group, adding to their collection, which includes Quarterdeck, The Whale Inn, and The Inlet.

Experiences

Roll into the Central Coast

A new roller-skating venue has opened in Erina.

Housed in an airy space with mirrored walls, disco balls, and a retail outlet selling skating accessories, Rollerfit Erina offers a fantastic kids’ skating class with coaching and games, plus adult roller-dance classes.

Cycle through Country NSW

An inspiring cycling route now weaves through the beautiful Central West.

The Orange Villages Bike Trail is a 360km six-day trail around Mount Canobolas with eateries, vineyards, museums and accommodations dotted along the way. F

or a guided experience, book an e-bike tour with Central West Tours to learn local secrets about history, food, art and wine.

Toast of the town

One of Sydney’s favourite bakeries is set to start kneading dough on the NSW Central Coast, with Sonoma Bakery opening a new location in Terrigal later this month.

Sonoma’s co-founder Andrew Connole is originally from the Central Coast, so it’s a homecoming for him.

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