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Things to do in Newcastle: Where to Eat, Drink & Explore

Looking for things to do in Newcastle? We have you covered with our round-up of must-dos.

Interior shot of The Flotilla Newcastle with green bar stools in front of the open kitchen and pastel mural on back wall
The Flotilla

Like Sydney, Newcastle centres around a harbour and a bounty of beautiful beaches, but its population of just over half a million makes it a quieter alternative for a glorious weekend away, a summer holiday, or a permanent sea change. After all, you can still find a free car park next to the sand here, and that, on its own, is enticing enough.

Newcastle — or, as the locals call it — ‘Newy’, has seen an almighty resurgence over the last decade, with a new café, bar, or restaurant swinging open its doors almost every week. So, forget the Sydney and Melbourne rivalry, the dark horse city vying for your attention may just be this Greater Hunter Region gem. 

Two people sitting in the subway-tiled Hubro Cafe reading a newspaper
Hubro Cafe

Things to do in Newcastle: Eat

From a lazy lunch at a newly opened cafe to waterside fine dining, there’s no shortage of choice when it comes to eating out in Newcastle. A foodie destination in its own right means eating out is a highlight of things to do in Newcastle. It’s the type of place where you can rely on the seafood being fresh, the pub meals being generous, and vegan options are abundant.

Jana Restaurant & Bar

Located in the QT Hotel, Jana Restaurant & Bar has become a foodie favourite for locals and visitors alike in Newcastle, combining a chic and stylish atmosphere with a flavour-packed menu to match.

Newly appointed Head Chef Shayne Mansfield, previously awarded One Hat during his appointment at local Newcastle restaurant The Flotilla, serves modern Australian cuisine, where locally sourced ingredients and sustainable fare take centre stage.

Our favourites from the winter menu include the signature carrot tartare and the Rocky Point Cobia Fish with Cauliflower, Vin Blanc and Tobiko.

185 Hunter Street, Newcastle

A table spread with multiple entree dishes on amber glass at Harrison's Food & Wine
Harrison's Food & Wine

Harrison's Food & Wine

Chef Tony Harrison brings an exciting and adventurous menu to this small and intimate venue. Standout dishes include the confit duck, the beef tartare with salted egg yolk and aioli potato crisps and the porcini mushroom risotto. The wine list, which is all from the Hunter Valley region, really packs a punch too, and goes fabulously with the food. 

108 Tudor Street, Hamilton

Light Years

Miami Vice meets Newcastle at this tropical-hued venue, the fourth from the Light Years team. Executive Chef Robbie Oijvall pairs a fresh cuisine-crossing, pan-Asian menu with punchy cocktails. Dishes include Wagyu steak served Bo Ssam-style, king prawn rolls with yuzu mayonnaise and zingy kingfish ceviche with coconut cream and kaffir lime. The cocktails are truly special. Our favourite? The Lola Paloma, a chili, watermelon, and lime take on the traditional grapefruit cocktail.

5-7 Darby Street, Newcastle

A green pasta dish on a white ceramic plate at humbug
Humbug

Humbug

Wine, pasta and snacks? Hard yes. While everything on the menu at Humbug menu jumps out at you (looking at you, duck ragu, pork and fennel chilli crunch, mussels and calamari), punters rave about the Feed Me set menu ($85), where you can get a little taste of everything. Even better is the fact it includes dessert. We're eyeing off the black forest gateau and fig leaf panna cotta.

87-89 Hunter Street, Newcastle 

A deli-style ham and cheese sandwich from Arno Deli
Arno Deli

Arno Deli

This place is a hidden gem popular among the locals and famous for their legit artisan deli in the heart of Newcastle. There's a reason why their paninis have gained legendary status with Arno Deli using both local and imported ingredients to bring you mouth-watering goodness. 

Top panini picks include the mortadella, pistachio and stracciatella, the truffled Marscapone, mushroom and smoked mozzarella and the prosciutto cotto, mortadella, finocchiona and provolone. Make sure you grab a sweet treat to go because their cannoli is out-of-this-world.

181 King Street, Newcastle

Interior shot of The Flotilla Newcastle with green bar stools in front of the open kitchen and pastel mural on back wall
The Flotilla

The Flotilla

This recently hatted restaurant makes for a special night out. The menu at Flotilla is diverse and creative, with a focus on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes you won't stop thinking about for days to come. If you can, grab a seat at the bar so you can watch all the action in the kitchen. 

Chef Jake Deluca serves up must-try creations that will not disappoint including the tomato consomme with black olives and marjoram, beef tartare with egg jam and horseradish and the market fish with soubise, pernod and fennel veloute. The cocktails are also excellent and the matching wines are equally as delightful. Another win? Their vegetarian set menu for $115 is *chef's kiss*. 

9 Albert Street, Wickham 

Outdoor dining area at Elementa Newcastle with black painted brick wall and neon 'Elementa' sign with wall plants
Elementa

Elementa 

Situated on the banks of Throsby Foreshore lies Newcastle's newest addition to the foodie scene — Elementa. This stunning waterfront location is all about relaxed yet refined dining, with an everchanging seasonal menu and a carefully curated cocktail and wine list.

Head chef Jess Brooks weaves his magic throughout the menu, which includes Berkshire pork belly with smoked macadamia and Koji mustard greens, kingfish sashimi with white soy, ajvar, and lime, and spiced lamb ribs with tahini yogurt, preserved vegetable and herb salad. 

76 The Lane, Maryville

The exterior of Hubro cafe in newcastle with patrons seated outside on the pavement
Hubro

Hubro

Start your day right by venturing toward the beach end of Darby Street where you’ll find yourself at Hubro, a crisp white cafe with a wooden interior that takes its no-fuss food seriously. Although this local hangout is popular for its cold brew coffee, it’s also known for its hearty smashed avo, served on thick, nutty sourdough, with a healthy dose of avocado, delicate crumbles of salty feta, and drizzled with organic honey.

1a/295 Darby Street, Bar Beach

The blue coffee counter at momo cafe
Momo Wholefood

Momo Wholefood

Located along Newcastle’s thriving Hunter Street, the menu at Momo feels fresh, catering to all dietary requirements, from vegan to carnivore, this well-curated cafe places importance on organic sustainable produce.

What’s more, the setting of Momo feels fresh too, being housed in a beautiful former bank, flooded with sunlight accenting its period features and delightful design and decor. So, for those looking for things to do in Newcastle that are based around good food and design, this is it.

227 Hunter Street, Newcastle 

Âpé Yakitori Bar

Tokyo is famous for its yakitori laneways, and this Newie hotspot is well-known for the skewered treat. For those who haven’t tried it yet, yakitori is a method of skewering meat on a ‘kushi’ (usually made of bamboo), and grilling it over a charcoal fire until it’s bursting with flavour, or ‘umami’. What separates yakitori from kebab-style meats, you ask? Traditionally, yakitori bars cook up every part of the chicken including the heart and liver. 

Don't forget to round it out with one of their divine creations from the cocktail list, which has been curated by Chris Wilson of The Koutetsu. Our pick? the Sakura Cherry Blossom with Bombay Sapphire Gin, Dassai Sake, yuzu, honey and orange blossom water. 

The Boardwalk, Shop 3N/1 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle

Things to do in Newcastle: Drink

3 gin bottles from earp distilling co lined up
Earp Distilling Co.

Earp Distilling Co.

With a passion for the creative and experiential, Earp Distilling Co. was created to craft spirits synonymous with quality, sustainability, and adventure. Kick back at the bar and work your way through their extensive menu of spirits (think knock-your-socks-off vodka, unforgettable and award-winning gin, and their unique twist on absinthe) while chowing down on the delish bar snacks (edamame beans with kaffir lime salt, say no more), or book yourself in for one of their wildly fun gin mixing classes. 

41 Darling Street, Carrington

People enjoying drinks in the alfresco seating area of custom's house in newcastle
Custom's House Hotel

Custom's House Hotel

Once the location of the Australian Customs offices, Customs House Hotel is a beautiful heritage-listed building that makes you feel a million miles away from where you actually are. The stunning location on the Newcastle Harbour foreshore is matched by the exceptional food and drinks.

There's a restaurant menu with modern Australian offerings if you're up for an elevated meal or a more casual snack menu with small bites and share plates. Soak up the breathtaking views and buzzing atmosphere as the live band plays. 

1 Bond Street, Newcastle

A cheese platter, wines and other assorted dishes at Romberg's
Romberg's Bar

Romberg's Bar

With expansive views of the city, Romberg's is one of Newcastle's most popular (and pretty!) rooftop destinations. For a spectacular sunset viewing, grab a table at dusk and soak in the panoramic views and the impressive drinks list. Whether you're in the mood for an artisanal cocktail or a local wine, you're sure to find something to suit your cravings. Feeling peckish? Their delish grazing menu will keep that belly full.

Level 9/282 King Street, Newcastle 

The entrance to the lucky hotel in newcastle
The Lucky Hotel

The Lucky Hotel

Every trip away needs a classic local pub experience and the Lucky Hotel more than delivers. If you're looking for a fun night out, the outdoor courtyard has DJs and live music on Fridays and Saturdays. 

This glamorous mid-century urban oasis, which was recently renovated, also serves up top-notch pub grub, delicious local wines, and an extensive cocktail list. Looking for a place to stay, too? The historic building also has 30 boutique guest rooms that are modern and tastefully appointed. 

237 Hunter Street, Newcastle

Assorted dishes and cocktails on the table at landing bar & kitchen Newcastle
The Landing Bar & Kitchen

The Landing Bar & Kitchen

Treat yourself to an afternoon of harbourside gazing at The Landing Bar and Kitchen, located along the Honeysuckle foreshore; a beloved waterfront precinct that belongs on every list of things to do in Newcastle.

Along with its idyllic views, this chic venue offers a summer-inspired cocktail list, making it a perfect place to relax and watch the harbour activity unfold come sunset. There’s also a modern Italian menu with plenty of sharing-type meals on offer.

1 Honeysuckle Drive, Newcastle

Things to do in Newcastle: Stay

A compact and stylish hotel room at Crystalbrook Kingsley.
Crystalbrook Kingsley

Crystalbrook Kingsley

Want to level up your stay? Book in at the five-star luxury accommodation destination, Crystalbrook Kingsley. The first luxury hotel to hit Newcastle, Crystalbrook Kingsley is just what you need to make your getaway extra special. With a range of sophisticated yet sustainably modern rooms on offer, you can relax and unwind while taking time to connect with Newcastle's thriving centre. You can also drink and dine in style at Crystalbrook Kingsley's very own rooftop bar, Romberg's.  

Level 9/282 King Street, Newcastle

QT Newcastle
QT Newcastle

QT Newcastle

Housed in the heritage-listed 113-year-old former Scotts Limited and David Jones building, don't be fooled by the QT Newcastle's grandiose old-school interior. This is modern indulgence at its finest! Their spacious rooms have all the amenities one needs (think big bathtubs, beautiful views,  comfortable beds and an impressive mini bar) and you'll be spoiled for choice with their dining options. 

185 Hunter Street, Newcastle

The light and bright minimalist dining room at Flourish on Bull Airbnb in Newcastle
Flourish on Bull (Photo Credit: Airbnb)

Flourish on Bull

Live like a Novocastrian in this chic, two-bedroom, loft-style apartment in the charming leafy suburb of Cooks Hill. You'll feel right at home in this light-filled space, which is close to everything you need — good coffee, restaurants, and pubs. It's also within walking distance from the Newcastle Art Gallery and Newcastle Museum. 

Cooks Hill, address available on booking

A row of terrace houses at dusk in newcastle
Newcastle, Sitchu

Things to do in Newcastle: Shop & Explore

Get to know Newcastle properly by doing as the locals do. Wake up early to take a dip in one of the ocean baths and shop at one of the many boutique stores speckled along Darby Street. And if the stars align perfectly, you may just visit when the popular monthly Olive Tree Markets are on, in which case, you’re in luck!

A display of dried flowers at newcastle flower markets
Newcastle Flower Market

Newcastle Flower Market

Sometimes, the best type of local hotspot is the type that falls into many different categories — the Newcastle Flower Markets, along with its new kiosk cafe is such a spot. Here you can shop through the beautiful blooms that are on display in their warehouse, before sitting for a cappuccino with a side of sweet or savoury delicacy. The kiosk even welcomes you to bring your four-footed friends along, with puppy chinos and doggy bowls readily available.

1 Rural Drive, Sandgate

The starting blocks at newcastle baths at sunrise
Newcastle and Merewether Ocean Baths

Newcastle and Merewether Ocean Baths

Bondi's Icebergs ocean baths may be Australia's most famous seaside pool, but Newcastle may just have two of the finest. The best (and cheapest) thing to do in Newcastle is the seaside pools. First, there’s the Newcastle Ocean Bath, which opened in 1922, and stands unique thanks to its beautiful art deco facade and a short walk from the CBD.

And second, there’s the Merewether Ocean Bath, which opened in 1935, and is thought to be the largest in the southern hemisphere, consisting of two large pools (100m x 50m, and 100m x 27m) dug into the rocky outcrop at the southern end of Merewether Beach. 

5 Henderson Parade, Merewether

The Mr Goaty gelato van at olive tree markets in newcastle
Olive Tree Markets

Olive Tree Markets

Held once a month, Newcastle’s creative community gathers together for the Olive Tree Markets where you’ll find over 130 makers, designers, and gourmet artisan producers, within the grounds of Civic Park.

If you're looking for the thing to do in Newcastle, then this should be it. All bases are covered from the makers of the ceramics brand, Clay Canoe, to the creatives behind the kindness project, Secret Book Stuff, all the way to a gelato food truck and freshly squeezed lemonade stall. The Olive Tree Market is held on the first Saturday of the month and operates rain, hail, or shine.

Civic Park, Corner King & Darby Street, Newcastle

things to do in newcastle: A drone shot of single person floating in a coastal rockpool called The Bogey Hole in Newcastle
The Bogey Hole (Image Credit: Destination NSW)

The Bogey Hole

The Bogey Hole is an Instagram-worthy ocean pool in the heart of Newcastle, popular for visitors and photographers. Along a stunning stretch of coast, the pool was hand-hewn out of a rock platform by convicts in the early 1800s. The unpatrolled, swimming hole has historical significance as the earliest Australian example of a purpose-built ocean swimming pool. It can get busy on hot days with people trying to get the best shot, but with its photogenic, turquoise water and natural beauty, it’s absolutely unmissable.

York Drive, Newcastle

With so many things to do in Newcastle, it's easy to see why more and more Sydneysiders are looking to this northern outpost for a weekend getaway or a permanent sea change. After more inspo for when you're next in Newcastle? Check out Newcastle's Must-try Restaurants and bars.

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