hunter hunter valley’s valley’s best best
*Map is not to scale
Getting around... Taxi...............................02 4990 1111 Bus...............................02 4935 7200 Car Hire and Limousine....................02 4984 7766
4
Verandah Restaurant Cover - XO Sashimi salmon with avocado ice-cream and fried seaweed RidgeView Cover - Lamb and Chicken Souvla cooked over a Cypriot grill with cinnamon sweet potato, tabouleh and yoghurt dressing
www.diningout.com.au
contents Restaurant
Page
A la carte
Amanda’s On The Edge Harvest Restaurant Restaurant Cuvee Restaurant Sanctuary Shakey Tables The Cellar Restaurant The Mill Restaurant
19 28 23 16 11 7 21
Alfresco Dining
Amanda’s On The Edge Bistro Molines Blaxlands Inn Restaurant Botanica The Olive Tree Restaurant The Verandah Restaurant
19 29 6 9 17 41
Bars / Lounge / Wine Bar
Bodega Restaurant & Bar Blaxlands Inn Brokenback Bar Goldfish Hunter Valley Steakhouse Wandin Wine Bar & Diner
Bistro
Bistro Molines Bistro Vinden
Café / Coffee
1843 Harvest Café Muse Restaurant & Café RidgeView
Casual Cuisine / Dining
Cracked Pepper Goldfish SSS BBQ Barns
Contemporary Dining
Bistro Vinden Emerson’s At Pokolbin Muse Restaurant & Café Nightingale Wines Nine Roberts Restaurant Shakey Tables The Cellar Restaurant
Dessert
Sabor In The Hunter
European
Bistro Molines Muse Kitchen Nine
Fine Dining
Muse Restaurant & Cafe Margan Restaurant Nine Restaurant Sanctuary Roberts Restaurant
Food Sharing
Goldfish Harry’s At Tatler The Verandah Restaurant Wandin Wine Bar & Diner
Food / Wine Matching
Bistro Vinden Esca - Bimbadgen Harvest Restaurant Hunter Valley Steakhouse RidgeView Sabor In The Hunter
22 6 21 8 34 33 29 38
43 51 30 & 31 14 & 15 8 26 & 27 38 52 51 36 25 2 11 7 50 29 18 25 51 49 25 16 2 8 24 41 33 38 3 28 34 30 & 31 50
French /Mediterranean / Rustic
Bistro Molines Margan Restaurant The Olive Tree Restaurant
Gourmet Pies Blaxlands Inn
High Tea
Tower Lodge
Italian
Vittorio’s
29 49 17 6 20 10
Restaurant
Page
June 2012 - November 2012
Japanese Oishii
Modern Australian
Amanda’s On The Edge Bodega Restaurant & Bar Cracked Pepper Esca - Bimbadgen Nightingale Restaurant Restaurant Botanica Restaurant Cuvee Shakey Tables The Cellar Restaurant The Verandah Restaurant Vittorio’s
Organic
Bistro Vinden Cracked Pepper
35 19 22 14 & 15 3 36 9 23 11 7 41 10 38 14 & 15
Pasta
Brokenback Bar Hunter Valley Steakhouse Vittorio’s
21 34 10
Pizza
1843 Harvest Café Brokenback Bar Vittorio’s
Winery / Vineyard / Restaurant / Café
43 21 10
1843 Harvest Café Amanda’s On The Edge Bistro Vinden 14 & Cracked Pepper Esca - Bimbadgen Harry’s At Tatler Harvest Restaurant - Hope Estate Margan Restaurant Muse Kitchen - Keith Tulloch Winery Nightingale Restaurant Restaurant Botanica 30 & RidgeView The Olive Tree Restaurant The Verandah Restaurant
Ribs
SSS BBQ Barns
Seafood
Hunter Valley Steakhouse Vittorio’s
Steak
Blaxlands Inn Hunter Valley Steakhouse SSS BBQ Barns Vittorio’s
Tapas
Brokenback Bar Emerson’s At Pokolbin Harry’s At Tatler Harvest Restaurant RidgeView The Mill Restaurant The Verandah Restaurant Wandin Wine Bar & Diner
Thai
Blue Thai Oishii
Themed Restaurant
Shakey Tables SSS BBQ Barns
Features
Map & Contents Hunter Valley - Wine Country Passion, Pride & A Look Inside Mistletoe Wines / Pokolbin Gallery Hunter Valley Wine Society Balloon Aloft Special Events Live Theatre & Music Dining Out App
43 19 38 15 3 24 28 49 18 36 9 31 17 41
26 & 27 34 10 6 34 26 & 27 10
Dining Out Hunter Valley is produced by Dining Out ABN: 97 283 081 944 PO Box 3878 Robina Town Centre QLD 4230 P: (07) 5575 1940 F: (07) 5580 9044 E: info@diningout.com.au W: www.diningout.com.au Publisher Jason Barns P: 0414 252 170 E: jason@diningout.com.au Advertising Enquires (07) 5575 1940 Distribution Enquires 0432 500 689 Graphic Design TMR Designs Printed by Craft Inprint Group - Brisbane
All artwork used in this publication remain the property of the publishers and it is an infringement of copyright to reproduce any material without written authority of the publisher. All care is taken to ensure that the information in the publication is accurate. The publisher cannot be held liable for human error & omissions that may occur. The publisher cannot accept responsibility for any ‘misleading or deceptive’ material published and indemnifies itself against any methods or practises which may be placed in this publication.
21 52 24 28 30 & 31 21 41 33 32 35 11 26 & 27 4&5 12 & 13 15 37 & 39 42 48 44 & 45 46 & 47 40
Dining Out & Entertainment Guide are members of Publishers Australia and Hunter Valley Tourism.
“We would appreciate you mentioning Dining Out when visiting Hunter Valley restaurants featured in this guide” www.diningout.com.au 5
hunter valley
Today, the Hunter Valley is certainly one of Australia’s most well-known wine regions, which, since its foundation, has produced many fine, world recognised wines. There are over 120 wineries producing a wide array of exceptional wines reflective of their origin. Whilst Hunter Valley Wine Country is famous for its great wines, there are also a number of other activities to discover and enjoy. From beautiful art galleries, gardens, bicycle tours & hot air ballooning, there are a myriad of things to do. When visiting the Hunter Valley, most people don’t want to leave, and why would you? With amazing wines, fabulous local produce & quality restaurants, cosy accommodation properties, quaint galleries showcasing talented local artists & gorgeous scenery. Whilst it is the Hunter Valley as a whole that is recognised and remembered as a world-class wine region and tourism destination, the region is made up of a number of small communities, townships and localities. Each of them has their own secrets to reveal and can be discovered on their own or as part of a Hunter Valley trail. Broke Fordwich is home to boutique wineries and quality country accommodation with splendid vistas. Exceptional wines, fine restaurants and a gourmet selection of local produce make a visit to this area a must. East of Pokolbin you will discover Lovedale. Known for its community of boutique wineries, cellar doors, quality accommodation, restaurants and unique galleries, Lovedale is also were the now famous Lovedale Long Lunch takes place every year in May. Pokolbin/Rothbury forms the epi-centre of Wine Country. It is where most of the Hunter Valley’s first vineyards were planted and were you will find the largest collection of wineries, accommodation houses, restaurants and activities. And, of course, you will also find many of the original families here. Mount View is one of the most idyllic and scenic parts of the Hunter Valley. Enjoy Mount View Road, from the south-eastern end of Pokolbin south to Millfield Village. The road winds its way around the breathtakingly beautiful Brokenback Range and reveals vistas you’ll just have to capture. 12
www.diningout.com.au
wine country
The picturesque Wollombi Valley and its historic village are home to many old convict structures and ancient Aboriginal sites. Wollombi Village is famed for its heritage colonial architecture and is the gateway to the convict trail, National Parks, boutique wineries and museums. Dalwood is located off the New England Highway. You will find these small village centres displaying historic architecture, arts & crafts stores and friendly locals. Dalwood is also the site of the Hunter Valley’s first grapevines and you will find links to the area’s history at Wyndham Estate. Cessnock is just of the F3 Freeway and is Wine Country’s hub for business and shopping. Here you will find everything you need from groceries, gifts, fashion and the Performing Arts Centre as well as the essential services including post office and banks. There are also several accommodation options, restaurants, cafés and pubs.
For more details go to www.diningout.com.au
Singleton/Upper Hunter via the New England Highway, the Golden Hwy, Putty Road or Hermitage Road, this sub-region offers boutique wineries, rolling pasture, horse studs and natural wonders – including Lake St Clair – and an intriguing mix of heritage, country charm and modern sophistication. Around Hermitage at the northern end of Pokolbin this friendly rural destination offers a wide range of accommodation styles, restaurants, cafes and galleries. It is also where some of the region’s most acclaimed vignerons and winemakers both work and live. Another world awaits within Maitland, your opportunities and experiences are limited only by your imagination. On arrival to the area, adventure, exploration, indulgence and relaxation await you. This is your chance to start a new chapter and unearth another world. Step into the historic town of Morpeth, the Hunter Valley’s premier boutique shopping and dining venue. Wander down the gorgeous sandstone streets to find colonial buildings occupied by modern and inviting cafés, pubs, galleries, boutiques, antique shops and local businesses. Morpeth is situated on the banks for the Hunter River, just two hours drive north from Sydney. Come and explore……….. 13
41
special events
MARKETS IN THE HUNTER All year round Farmers & Artisan Markets 3rd Sat of Month, 8am - 2pm 133 Morpeth Road, East Maitland Hand Made in the Hunter Valley 2nd & 4th Sat of month, 9am - 4pm Kevin Sobels Wines, Halls Road, Pokolbin HV Gardens Village Markets 3rd Sat of Month, 10am - 4pm Broke Road, Pokolbin Maitland Markets 1st Sun every month / 3rd Sun Oct to Dec Maitland Showground’s 8am - 2pm Morisset Mega Markets Every Sat & Sun & Public Holiday Mondays 8.30am - 4.30pm Off F3 freeway, Morisset exit 3 acres undercover, 100’s of markets stalls Singleton Markets 4th Sat of Month, 8am - 1pm Singleton Showground’s, Bathurst Street Wollombi Village Markets Mon of each long weekend Easter, June & October, 8am - 1pm Wollombi Saleyards on Paynes Crossing Road Laguna Markets 3rd Sun of Month, 9.30am - 1pm Laguna 8kms south of Wollombi Wyee Community Markets 2nd Sat of Month, Wyee Hall grounds
44
HUNTER VALLEY WINE & FOOD MONTH 1 - 30 June 2012 This special event is a gastronomic delight and a great opportunity for visitors to meet the Winemakers, Chefs and Producers from the region and immerse yourself in the Hunter Valley like never before. Various venues across the Hunter www.huntervalleyuncorked.com.au
SNOW TIME IN THE GARDEN 30 June - 15 July 2012 Hunter Valley Gardens will transform the Formal Garden into an enchanting winter wonderland complete with a skating rink for the whole family to enjoy. Broke Road, Pokolbin Ph: 02 4998 4000 www.hvg.com.au CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL 7- 8 July 2012 The HVG will transform into a chocolate lovers paradise with the annual Chocolate Festival taking place. Lap up the luxurious selection of ‘all things sweet’ and watch world class chocolatiers dazzle you. Broke Road, Pokolbin Ph: 02 4998 4000 www.hvg.com.au CHRISTMAS IN JULY 21 July 2012 Our most festive event of the year! Savour a 4 course feast in an atmosphere that would make Santa green with envy. Cost: Members $80 Non members $100 6pm for a 6.30pm start Ph: 1800 777 444 www.hopeestate.com.au WINERY RUNNING FESTIVAL 21 - 22 July 2012 It’s not every day that you get to run through world famous gardens, historic homesteads, international golf resorts and of course, some of the most famous wineries in Australia. www.huntervalleymarathon.net COFFEE, CHOCOLATE & FINE FOOD 18 - 19 August 2012 Entertainment will include chocolate demonstrations, historic walking tours, horse and carriage rides and a wide range of Blues and Jazz music performed on two stages. Heritage Mall, High Street, Maitland www.maitlandcitycentre.com.au
www.diningout.com.au
THE MAILAND BALL 25 August 2012 The ball is truly a dancer’s delight with a program of old, new and much loved dances. Maitland Town Hall, High Street 6:30pm Start $60 per person or $50 (early bird discount before 12 August), $50 non-dancers, $35 student, Children under 12yrs free. Ph: 02 4946 5602
JAZZ IN THE VINES 27 October 2012 Jazz in the Vines is unlike any other Jazz concert in Australia. It’s more a picnic with good friends, fantastic food and great Hunter Valley wines all wrapped up in the beautiful surroundings of the Brokenback Mountains. Tyrrell’s Vineyard www.jazzinthevines.com.au
WUPA AT WANARUAH 21 September - 31 October 2012 Wupa is the Aboriginal Wanaruah word ‘to make or to paint’. The Wupa at Wanaruah exhibition which involves 15 to 18 local Aboriginal artists creates a progressive Aboriginal Art Trail over the vineyards that visitors can follow. Various venues, Pokolbin www.ungooroo.com.au
BITTER & TWISTED INTERNATIONAL BOUTIQUE BEER FESTIVAL 3 - 4 November 2012 Around four thousand people flocked through the gates of the Maitland Gaol compound for the 2011 Bitter and Twisted - with crowds fizzing with excitement over the vast array of delicious and unique brews and high caliber entertainment. www.bitterandtwisted.com.au
SCULPTURE IN THE VINEYARDS 7 October - 3 November 2012 Six beautiful locations include five vineyards along the Wollombi Valley Wine Trail and the Gate Gallery where both indoor and outdoor works are displayed. Various locations in the Wollombi Valley www.sculptureinthevineyards.com.au
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR At Hunter Valley Gardens 9 November 2012 - 26 January 2013 With exciting new displays of over a million lights, plus festive food, beverages, children’s entertainment & of course Santa Claus Broke Road, Pokolbin Ph: 02 4998 4000 www.hvg.com.au
OPERA IN THE VINEYARDS 13 October 2012 Prepare yourself for a special treat this spring as Opera in the Vineyards presents a gala concert to celebrate the world’s greatest opera composer Giacomo Puccini. Passionate & romantic, his exhilarating music touches the heart and stirs the emotions. Gates open at 3pm Concert starts at 7pm Wyndham Estate Ph: 1800 675 875 www.operainthevineyards.com.au
For more events go to….. www.diningout.com.au www.hevents.net www.hvg.com.au
45
live theatre and music
MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW 7 June 2012 8pm Tickets $50 or CPAC Members $40 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
MENOPAUSE THE MUSICAL 27 June 2012 8pm Tickets $45 CPAC Members $42 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
CLIFF JOINS THE BEATLES 29 June 2012 8pm Tickets $60 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
46
BIDDIES 4 July 2012 8pm Tickets $60 CPAC Members $50 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE 11 July 2012 11am & 7pm Tickets $20 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 JON ENGLISH - Rock Revolution 20 - 21 July 2012 8pm Tickets $59.90 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 WHAT A MANS GOTTA DO 27 July 2012 7.30pm Tickets $34.90 CPAC Member $30 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
www.diningout.com.au
HOPE HOEDOWN 4 August 2012 Get your cowboy/girl boots on and swing in for some good old country fun. Enjoy wave after wave of delicious finger- food served throughout our first ever Hope Hoedown. Cost: Members $60 Non Member $80 Time: noon - 5pm Ph: 1800 777 444 www.hopeestate.com.au
TREASURE ISLAND 18 August 2012 2pm Tickets $15 If mum/dad is accompanied by a pirate they get in free! Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
THE FLOOD 18 September 2012 8pm Tickets $49.90 CPAC Member $43 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134
THE TWITS 4 October 2012 10am & 2pm - Tickets $20 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 JOHNNY CASH THE CONCERT The 80th Birthday Australian Tour 2012 2 November 2012 8pm Tickets $65 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 CARAVAN BURLESQUE 13 November 2012 8pm Tickets $55 CPAC Member $49.90 Cessnock Performing Arts Centre 198 - 202 Vincent Street Cessnock www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac Ph: 02 4990 7134 For more productions in 2012 Check Out…… www.diningout.com.au www.hopeestate.com.au www.cpac@cessnock.nsw.gov.au/cpac
47