17 minute read
Taste - Food + Drink
�Taste
The following pages showcase a selection of the best restaurants in the Greater Port Macquarie Region.
Advertisement
⟶ The Stunned Mullet
EXEMPLARY WINE+CUISINE
Welcome to The Stunned Mullet Restaurant + Bar Located on beautiful Town Beach with a spectacular vista north to Point Plomer, The Stunned Mullet is Port Macquarie’s quintessential dining experience. Established in 2005, the restaurant holds a Good Food Guide (National Edition) Hat, has retained a Trip Advisor Traveller’s Choice Rating within Australia every year since 2013 and this year achieving Best of The Best 2020, as well as in 2018 and 2019 having achieved Gourmet Traveller Wine List of the year highest rating of 3 Glasses. The Stunned Mullet is a place where amazing food, incredible wines, great service and relaxed coastal ambience come together perfectly. They look forward to welcoming you at the restaurant in the near future.
Award Winning Cuisine Their philosophy focuses on the importance of ingredients. They source the freshest of local produce from our beautiful and fertile Hastings region and pair these with innovative, international flavours, letting the results speak for themselves. ↑ One of Australia’s Premier Destinations for Wine The pairing of great wine with great food is also hugely important to them. Their passion for wine, both local and international varietals has led to the creation of an exemplary wine list where oenophiles will be absolutely spoilt for choice.
Take a stroll down Short Street in Port Macquarie and you’ll discover a number of ways to indulge in some foodie inspiration. Recently this has become THE speciality food strip where you can find anything from those hard to source Asian ingredients to some of the tastiest bread and desserts that you’ve ever tried. Your curiosity may be drawn to a delicious aroma and a line of people outside one of the shops… these are the locals excitedly waiting to buy the day’s fresh treats from Burkhardt’s Organic Bakery. From first glance, this place has a lot more going on than most people would expect. Behind the doors of this German-inspired Bakery, which has been a local business on the scene for the past 12 years, Michael Burkhardt and his family have spent the last six years creating an authentic Food Experience focused on “real” food, sustainable methods and utilising as many purely Organic ingredients as possible. The term “Organic”, for this German Pastry Chef/Baker, is definitely more than just a current day marketing term - it’s a way of growing, sourcing and baking on a day-to-day basis. As the local clientele know, just walking by Burkhardt’s Bakery is a feast for the eyes as well as the tastebuds. No one really needs an excuse to indulge in the really special European-style treats especially created by Michael and his crew, but Easter is definitely the time to sample these delicacies! There’s nothing quite like Burkhardt’s Hot Cross Buns made from their traditional recipe and freshly baked from the oven. And their delicious Salmon Quiche (only available at Easter) is a fabulous addition to any lunch or dinner with friends and family, either at home or celebrating outdoors. While stocking up on their Hot Cross Buns, you won't be able to resist adding some extra treats from their absolutely delectable pastries, cakes and artisan breads. But the great assurance too is knowing the care and attention that go into the production and presentation of all the mouth-watering treats on offer. The dedication doesn’t stop there - Michael is also fully committed to sustainable practices and chooses to use an Organically grown flour. He also uses “Salt Of The Earth” hand harvested sea salt and fully filtered, fluoride- free water in all of his products. So the next time you’re wandering down Short Street and notice the boutique food stores that may inspire your cooking, be sure to pop into Burkhardt’s Organic Bakery and taste the difference of what experience and a passion for healthy and sustainable food is like.
1/15 Short Street, Port Macquarie | Open Monday to Friday 7am until 2pm | Saturday 7am until 1pm Phone (02) 6583 4699 | burkhardtsorganic.com.au | Map Ref J9
⟵ Welcome to Botanic Wine Garden...Just like you, they dream of ditching work to sip rosé in the park and of hot summer nights all year long. Come and be a part of what they are – a place to celebrate life with what they know best – food and drink. Their space is local, spreading from the inside out; they're organic in their approach and delivery. The team's background is complex and while they hail from some of the finest dining establishments, they just want to be your favourite neighbourhood joint. The progressive menu comes from North Coast farmers' markets, local producers, fishing boats and oyster leases, country fields and the wondrous meanderings of spirited travellers with passionate palates. Here they believe that every wine has a story to tell, be it about the place, the grape or the winemaker. The Australian oriented wine list is broad enough for you to come by and enjoy wine with them every night or perhaps order something you can't get anywhere else in the world.
A DISCOVER MAGAZINE ORIGINAL SERIES
"Food tastes better when it's enjoyed outside"
WATCH THE LATEST EPISODE
FOODIEGRAM
Share your food images with us on instagram #discoverportmacfood
A TRUE ICON OF PORT MACQUARIE
Nestled over the banks of the Hastings River, the Whalebone Wharf is Port Macquarie’s premier seafood restaurant. Established for over 40 years the restaurant is an iconic landmark offering unsurpassed waterfront dining, the finest culinary experiences and world class ambiance. Hatted Executive Chef Peter Ridland (former executive chef of Jonahs, Whale Beach) handcrafts each dish with the freshest produce available in the region, delivering a mouth watering menu including live lobsters from the tank and non seafood options. Absolute waterfront means you can arrive by seaplane, helicopter or boat if you choose. A seafood and water lover's dream! The friendly staff look forward to welcoming you. Open 7 days for lunch and dinner. Book through the Whalebone website www.whalebonewharf.com.au
269 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie Phone: 6583 2334 Map Ref B6 whalebonewharf.com.au @whalebonewharf
FINNIAN'S TAVERN #LOUNGE www.finnians.com.au
⟵ A modern twist on a classical Irish Tavern. Finnian's Tavern boasts Port Macquarie’s best charcoal grill which will have your steak melting in your mouth. Along with their scrumptious cuisine, they have a massive selection of ice cold beer, wine, spirits and cocktails. All of their energetic and friendly staff have a passion for exceptional food and beverages and strive to deliver outstanding customer service and an enjoyable atmosphere to each one of their valued customers. This family-friendly locally run pub has live music every weekend showcasing Port Macquarie’s most talented artists in rotation with touring acts. So whether you’re looking for a spot for a delicious lunch or dinner, after-work drinks or a few brews or wines to unwind on the weekend, Finnian's Tavern is the place to be.
⟶ When you visit Rivermark Cafe, you won’t be disappointed by their uninterrupted views of the beautiful Hastings River. Open Tuesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch, you can sit outside in the covered al fresco dining area and soak in the waterfront atmosphere – you might even see the local dolphins swim past! Their scrumptious menu strives for freshness and consistency and includes seafood, salad, gourmet burgers, and varied weekly lunch specials. As they are licensed, you can also enjoy a nice glass of vino from their small but interesting boutique wine selection...or simply just pop in for a Merlo coffee and cake from local artisan bakers. Rivermark Café is hugely popular with locals and visitors alike so bookings are recommended particularly on weekends...this is definitely a place not to be missed in Port Macquarie!
⤷ The Rainforest Café is set in the beautiful surrounds of Sea Acres Rainforest Centre. Come and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the rainforest surrounds whilst tasting some of their delicious meals, cakes and drinks. Open for breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon tea 7 days a week. (see page 38)
⟶ Port Macquarie’s first Gourmet Burger restaurant and proud to be voted amongst the top ten burger restaurants in Australia by TripAdvisor. After working as a fine dining chef all over the world, owner Matt Conway has returned to introduce Port Macquarie to the world of Gourmet Burgers. Matt’s love of food and all things chilli is evident and the chilli sauce display is a major feature in the shop. For those who dare to indulge, try the loaded fries! They have some great ales to wash down your burger and are proud to stock local brewery, Moorebeer Brewing Co. Above all, The Burger Rebellion prides itself on providing great quality food in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. All produce is sourced locally and owners Matt and Bec are passionate about getting involved in the local community. Bookings unfortunately cannot be taken but their friendly staff are always waiting for your visit.
BILLS FISHHOUSE + BAR #LOUNGE www.billsfishhouse.com.au
⟶ Modern simplicity is how this eatery and its menu can be described. Primely positioned in Clarence House, Bills Fishhouse dons a casual urbanity which is echoed throughout the well designed space. There’s a carefully curated sea-to plate menu. The focus has been on staying true to fresh, seasonal ingredients that underpin the brand's ethos of simple, uncomplicated eating. From delectable oysters and whole baked fish to lush quality produce from nearby local suppliers. Chargrilled is the main weapon of choice in the kitchen, and behind the bar, there's a local line-up of craft beers on tap, well executed cocktails and an all NSW wine list to impress even the most developed palate. A foodie's paradise with a buzzing vibe, Bills is the place for a shared feast with friends, celebrating a special occasion or a casual evening drink or tasty bite after a day at the beach. Bills brings people together over a mutual love of good food, good wine and good times.
TWOTRIPLEFOUR #LOUNGE www.twotriplefour.com
⟶ Nestled within the lush Cassegrain Wines Estate, twotriplefour is a proudly local, paddock-to-plate eatery with a focus on championing quality seasonal produce and carefully-crafted wines. Twotriplefour is built on the philosophy of savour the region. It's the place to relish in a shared feast, indulge in a glass of wine, kick back in our welcoming dining space or enjoy a moment of sun on the patio.This is the place to slow down, be present and savour everything this exceptional region has to offer. With the fitting locale, it's no surprise wine is the hero of the bar list, however a hand-selection of local craft beers and bespoke cocktails are well represented also. Planning a big celebration or just looking for an inspiring venue to host your friends or colleagues? Twotriplefour is beautifully equipped to cater for your upcoming event, from intimate soirees, sassy shindigs to larger get-togethers, get in touch with us to chat!
The Hastings Region has an amazing diversity of local produce. From seafood to vegetables, pasture raised meats to organic foods, you can enjoy these wonderful products from our region at many local restaurants and specialty stores. Take pleasure in the fresh ingredients and taste the difference.
CHOP 'N CHILL #LOUNGE www.chopnchill.com.au
⟶ Conceived from a personal passion to create a relaxed dining experience unique to Port Macquarie, Chop ‘n Chill showcases an exceptional feel-good Bill of Fare characterising the contrasting culinary styles of East and West. Similarly, the atmosphere at Chop ‘n Chill is infused with a relaxed beach- style Buzz where fabulous waterfront views backdrop their spacious indoor and outdoor dining areas. It’s their pleasure to invite you to come on in, relax and unwind with their easy ambiance, excellent food and friendly service. Pop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner, or anytime in between. If you’re a local they'll do their best to make you feel like you’re on holiday; and if you’re a holiday-maker they’ll show you why they think this little corner of our beautiful seaside town is so special!
BLUE WATER BAR + RESTAURAN T #LOUNGE www.bluewaterbarandrestarant.com.au
↓ Nestled in rain-forest surrounds behind Flynn's Beach Resort, Blue Water Bar and Restaurant offers a great time for everyone. Located just a short stroll away from the iconic Flynn's Beach in Port Macquarie this locally owned family venue is so much more than a restaurant! With an outdoor children's play area, open space dining and cheeky wildlife, you can enjoy a meal or just a drink in the lush tropical surrounds whilst the kids have fun! Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch and seven days for dinner, we look forward to welcoming you to Blue Water Bar and Restaurant.
PANCAKE PLACE #LOUNGE www.pancakeplace.com.au
⟵ The Pancake Place is an iconic part of the Port Macquarie landscape and has been operating in the same spot for almost 30 years! In that time their menu has evolved to where it is today: a delicious range of pancakes and crepes to suit all palates – and don’t be fooled into thinking they are just a breakfast location. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, the choices are vast and varied with a great savoury menu for the adults as well as the kids corner menu for younger family members. Pancake Place with its wondrous bright and colourful decor is truly part of the Port Macquarie holiday experience – make sure you don’t miss out.
MIKE’S SEAFOOD #LOUNGE www.mikesseafood.com.au
↓ Fancy some fish 'n' chips? Mike's Seafood (next to Rydges) offer freshly cooked seafood cooked in cholesterol free oil, grilled fish and fresh salads. Order takeaway and head over to the nearby Town Green to enjoy your feast while taking in the view of the Hastings River (sunset is highly recommended). Open 7 days from 11am. On Tuesdays from 4.30pm (excluding public and school holidays) buy 1 fish ‘n’ chips and get the second one for just $2 - you simply can’t go wrong! Eating-in option also available.
For more restaurant + dining information visit our website discoverportmacquarie.com.au
FISH N’ CHIPS
TUESDAYS FROM 4.30PM Buy 1 fish n’ chips, get another for just $2*
Shop 4, 13 Hay St, Port Macquarie Phone 02 6583 7721
WICKED ELF #LOUNGE www.wickedelf.com.au
⟵ Over the past decade, Wicked Elf beers have won over 150 National and International awards - thanks to top quality ingredients, carefully devised recipes and their love for brewing. All products are preservative free and unpasteurised, so there is nothing but the craftsmanship and purity of great beer that shines through. Come and taste why Wicked Elf is one of the leading craft breweries in Australia, right here in Port Macquarie. Tap room and beer garden now open. Plus, new to the brewery is Botanic at Wicked Elf. Match your beer with a sophisticated take on brewery food. ‘It’s not about how beer and food pair together, it’s about how they are the same thing’
Follow us for updates during your stay.
GOURMAND INGREDIENTS ORGANICS MATT’R
TRADING TIMES
Mon to Fri 9am-5.30pm / Sat 9.00am-2.00pm
CONTACT Ph: 6584 6268 facebook.com/gourmandingredients
WHERE Shop 3, 23-41 Short Street (across from Coles) Port Macquarie Map ref J9
Stock up on all your essential cooking ingredients for cuisines from all four corners of the globe. The hardest decision will be which recipe will you be cooking tonight?
BURKHARDT’S ORGANIC BAKERY
TRADING TIMES Mon to Fri 7am-2pm Sat 7am-1pm
CONTACT Ph: 6583 4699 Burkhardt's Organic
WHERE 1/15 Short Street, Port Macquarie Map ref J9
Michael Burkhardt is passionate about producing quality healthy bakery goods including breads, savouries and cakes. They use only Australian organic flour & hand harvested sea salt, and offer a wide range of gluten free products.
KEN LITTLE’S QUALITY FRUIT+ VEG
TRADING TIMES Mon, Tues, Wed and Fri 9am-5:30pm / Thurs 9am-7:30pm / Sat 9am-4:30pm / Sun 10am-4pm
CONTACT Ph: 0414 424 686 / organicsmattr.com.au / facebook.com/OrganicsMattR
WHERE Top level at Port Central (Facebook) or Tuesdays at Real Food Markets (Port Central Glasshouse forecourt) Map ref K8
At Organics MattR they support our local farmers and producers. They stock certified organic fruit and veg, meat, beauty products, essential oils, gifts, groceries and eco friendly items. Come in and have a chat with their friendly and passionate staff.
WORLD PARTEA
TRADING TIMES Mon to Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 9am-3pm, Sun closed
CONTACT Ph: 0401 309 707
WHERE Shop 2/1 Hay Street, Port Macquarie Map ref K8
One of Port Macquarie’s most delightful shops - World PARTEA - dedicated to the Art of Tea. Plus a charming range of tea accessories and quality gifts. You will find over 200 hand blended natural Teas, Herbal Tisanes and Fruit Infusions. Enjoy a free tasting at the Tea Bar and you can order a ‘take away’ of your favourite blend.
WANIORA VILLAGE BUTCHERY
TRADING TIMES Mon to Fri 7am-6pm / Sat 7am-5pm / Sun 9am-2pm
CONTACT Ph: 6583 5685 / kenlittlesfruitandveg.com.au kenlittlefruitandveg@gmail.com Ken Littles Fruit and Veg, Port Macquarie kel@kenlittles
WHERE 43 Munster St, Port Macquarie Map ref K9
Here you will find all the quality fresh produce you need - fruits, vegetables, fresh herbs and more. With colourful displays and friendly service, you will leave with a smile. Open 7 days. Organics on Tuesday. TRADING TIMES Mon to Fri 7am-5pm Sat 6am-12noon
CONTACT Ph: 6582 3512 / Facebook + Instagram
WHERE Shop 4, Waniora Parkway, Waniora Shopping Village, Port Macquarie Map ref L14
Stop by this locally loved butcher for all of your meat and poultry needs with great customer service. Crowned the Mid North Coast Sausage King in 2019 for their Traditional Beef Sausages and top three in Australia, they provide quality meat, gluten free products and much more. Try their sausages and you be the judge!
