Every must-try Dubbo restaurant and bar

Whether you’re hankering for a quick pie and coffee stop, a gastro pub feast or a fine dining experience in a winery, Dubbo has got every base covered.

Hear the name Dubbo and you’re likely to conjure up images of the giraffes walking the wilderness of Taronga Western Plains Zoo, or the aircraft of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. What’s less known, perhaps, is that Dubbo is also home to a thriving dining, coffee and craft beer scene.

What’s the best Dubbo restaurant to visit while you’re in town? Circle the following and make a booking (or two) with confidence.

The shortlist

Best coffee: Press
Most Instagrammable: Down the Lane
Fine dining: Cultivate
Best for families: Devil’s Hollow Brewery

1. Press

alfresco seating at Press Cafe, Dubbo — Nab a table in this gentle, greenery-filled space for a relaxed brunch. (Image: Destination NSW)

Known in some circles as ‘Dubbo’s answer to [Sydney’s] The Grounds of Alexandria’, and in others as ‘The crown jewel of Dubbo’s hospitality scene’, you can’t deny Press is pretty hot stuff. Housed in a charming 1930s house in Central Dubbo (the former office of the Land Newspaper), the coffee roastery, cafe, pantry shop and event space threw open its doors in 2015 and has been steadily growing its fanbase ever since.

Get past the throngs of people queuing for takeaway coffee out of the front to nab a table in this gentle, light-filled space and say oui to the likes of a roast pumpkin, feta and quinoa salad with spiced cashews, cucumber, tomato salads and crispy kumara for lunch. Caffeine? Not only can you drink your body weight in liquid gold (It’s hard to say no to their seasonal espresso blend of 70% Columbia Gaitana and 30% Brazil Nossa Snehora), you can buy bags of beans to enjoy at home.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $-$$

Atmosphere: Relaxed brunch crowd

Review: 5/5

Location: 30 Bultje Street, Dubbo

2. Down The Lane

the shaded courtyard at Down The Lane, Dubbo — Sip on premium cocktails in the shaded courtyard. (Image: Down The Lane)

If you like your modern Italian with a strong side of neon signage, premium cocktails and a ridiculously fashion-forward crowd, it’s time to make a beeline for Down the Lane , located right in the heart of town.

The younger sister of celebrated Dubbo eatery Church Street Cafe & Bar, the team at Down the Lane aren’t doing anything shady with spiders (you know what we’re talking about), pouring their magic into the ambience of the space (think garden party vibes) as well as the menu which offers a range of mouthwatering, handmade pizza and pasta options such as the popular baa babe – pizza with lamb ragu, mozzarella, red onion and tzatziki. All toppings and sauces at Down The lane are sourced from local suppliers, helping to keep support where it’s needed.

Headed there for lunch? Be sure to nab a table in the shaded courtyard.

Cuisine: Modern Italian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Electric garden party

Review: 5/5

Location: 215B Macquarie Street, Dubbo

3. Devil’s Hollow Brewery

preparing cocktails at Devil’s Hollow Brewery, Dubbo — An afternoon well spent with refreshing cocktails at Devil’s Hollow Brewery.

What do you get when four school friends come back from a holiday in South Africa with a vision to open a hub that draws in and unites craft beer lovers, coffee lovers and food lovers from all over the country? Devil’s Hollow Brewery , Dubbo’s first brewery.

Launched in 2019, Devil’s Hollow Brewery was quickly met with adulation from every age group (including the little ones who can’t get enough of their Little Devils menu featuring the likes of cheeseburgers and chicken tenders for lunch and dinner and pancakes with fruit for breakfast). At breakfast, a steady stream of customers pile in to get mitts on the establishment’s much-loved corn fitters or a classic avo toast, but come at lunch or a dinner and you’ll find the beer garden alive with diners keen to get their fill of woodfired pizzas. Keen for something more? It’s hard to go past the braised lamb shoulder with charred onions, mango chutney, grilled greens and creamy mash. To drink it alongside a beer – perhaps a Nosey Bob Red Ale or a Sandy Beach Belgian Blonde – with a story to tell? It couldn’t be more perfect.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Laidback charm

Review: 5/5

Location: 10 Commercial Avenue, Blueridge Business Park, Dubbo

4. Farmer’s Bakehouse

cake and pastries at Farmer’s Bakehouse, Dubbo — Make your day extra special with handcrafted cakes and slices. (Image: Farmer’s Bakehouse)

For those times when it’s less about the art of the long lunch and more about a quick pit stop at a place where the focus is on delivering high quality baked goods in a friendly atmosphere, Farmer’s Bakehouse has got you covered.

Established in 2009 and owned by fourth-generation farmer-turned-baker, Bart Shanks, Farmer’s Bakehouse might be famous for its signature flavour pies, but the team are also masters of handcrafted sourdough breads, cakes, pastries and happily, their full-bodied coffee.  With two locations in east and west Dubbo, you’d be crazy to miss out. You can even pop in for a salad.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Friendly and fast

Review: 5/5

Location: East: 55 Wheelers Lane, Dubbo; West: 38 Victoria Street, Dubbo.

5. Cultivate

the Lazy River Estate in Dubbo — Enjoy relaxed dining at the Lazy River Estate. (Image: Destination NSW)

Lazy River Estate might be known as the premier wedding and events venue in town, but those in the mood for a romantic date in a spectacular setting are also in luck with Cultivate at Lazy River Estate, an exclusive degustation dining event held only once a week in the Lazy River Estate dining room overlooking the Estate’s vines and manicured grounds.

With Executive Chef Brad Myers at the helm, diners can expect a seasonal menu that changes each month to showcase classic cuisine with a contemporary twist. A shellfish risotto, followed by a chicken wellington and a glazed lamb shoulder, topped with a vanilla and rhubarb pudding Anglaise? It would be rude to say no.

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Average price: $$$$

Atmosphere: Sophisticated, with a touch of romance

Review: 5/5

Location: 29R Old Rubbo Road, Dubbo.

6. The Establishment Bar Dubbo

Sip on The Daisy Fellow cocktail at The Establishment Bar Dubbo — Sip on the Daisy Fellow cocktail at The Establishment Bar Dubbo. (Image: Dylan Mario)

Keen for a little nightcap? Tucked away down the alley beside the Old Gaol, The Establishment Bar Dubbo   – best described as a moody, 1930s-era speakeasy – isn’t the easiest venue to find, but that’s part of what makes the whole experience so special.

Drop in to embrace a world where whisky tasting flights reign supreme (the bar has over 100 varieties on the shelf), or work your way through the lengthy (and creative) menu of crafted cocktails and mocktails, spirits, wine or beer. If you’re really getting into it, you may want to stick around for a show or two. A solid comedy lineup can be found on the bar’s socials so keep your eyes peeled.

Atmosphere: Dark and moody

Review: 5/5

Location: Suite 2, Lv 1, 88 Macquarie Street, Dubbo.

7. Old Bank Restaurant

the exterior of Old Bank Restaurant, Dubbo — Old Bank Restaurant is housed in a heritage building in the centre of Dubbo. (Image: Destination NSW)

Gastro pubs are often considered the hearts of regional centres and Old Bank Restaurant can certainly lay claim to that. Located in a heritage building in the centre of Dubbo, you can often hear the laughter and music emanating from Old Bank Restaurant long before you see it, and that’s exactly why you should book a table here.

On cool evenings, be sure to nab a table by the fireplace and say yes to that old-school Parmi or haloumi burger and sit back and enjoy the live music on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. This isn’t a quick stop, so dress for longevity and comfort.

Cuisine: Pub classics

Average price: $$

Atmosphere: Fun and lively

Review: 5/5

Location: 232 Macquarie Street, Dubbo.

8. Short Street Store

a close-up shot of pancakes at Short Street Store, Dubbo — The must-try buttermilk pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup at Short Street Store.

For such a small following, Short Street Store has a huge following and the adulation fits. After all, who can hate a venue which offers classics like fairy bread (as well as poached eggs on toast) on a kids’ menu?

For adults, it’s all about those much-loved breakfast and brunch items: avo on toast and the brekkie burger, but it’s hard to go past a jaffle – particularly when it’s stuffed with shredded chicken, basil pesto, semi-dry tomatoes and mozzarella. Pop in for lunch and treat yourself to a poke bowl or salad, content in the knowledge that no matter what time you arrive (well, as long as it’s before 12 on weekends), you’ll find service with a smile and excellent coffee.

Cuisine: Brunch classics

Average price: $

Atmosphere: Relaxed charm

Review: 5/5

Location: 11 Short Street, Dubbo.

Discover the best things to do in Dubbo.

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.

Every must-try Dubbo restaurant and bar

Whether you’re hankering for a quick pie and coffee stop, a gastro pub feast or a fine dining experience in a winery, Dubbo has got every base covered.

The shortlist

1. Press

2. Down The Lane

3. Devil’s Hollow Brewery

4. Farmer’s Bakehouse

5. Cultivate

6. The Establishment Bar Dubbo

7. Old Bank Restaurant

8. Short Street Store

Australia’s largest African-style savannah experience coming in 2026

6 incredible day trips from Dubbo

8 of the best accommodation options in Dubbo to retreat into

The ultimate Sydney to Dubbo road trip guide

The tastiest new players on Newcastle’s dining scene you need to try

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.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

2. Destination dining

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

5. Newcastle nightlife