Top 6 Places to Eat in Newcastle

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
23/08/2025
Nobby's Beach at sunset featuring a lighthouse and distant ocean vessel.
Josh Dennis, Pexels

Newcastle offers a thriving and diverse dining scene, featuring everything from sophisticated fine dining to authentic street food, catering to foodies, families, and couples alike.

1. The Flotilla

Cuisine: Modern Australian with European Influences

Nestled in Wickham, The Flotilla presents a refined yet relaxed dining experience. We savour its commitment to spotlighting local produce through an evolving seasonal menu, delivering uncomplicated yet delicious dishes with Mediterranean, Italian, Spanish, and French touches. Expect a sophisticated setting perfect for a special occasion. We recommend securing a spot at the chef's table for an engaging culinary journey.

Price: AU$70 - AU$120+ per person (approx. US$47 - US$80+)

Getting There: Located in Wickham, The Flotilla is a short taxi or rideshare from Newcastle's CBD. Public buses also service the area.

2. Jana Restaurant & Bar

Cuisine: Modern Australian with Amalfi-inspired Italian

Found within the stylish QT Newcastle in the vibrant East End, Jana offers an elegant dining atmosphere. We appreciate the menu's focus on premium local produce and sustainable fare, with dishes that beautifully blend modern Australian and Italian influences. The dry-aged meat cabinet showcases exceptional local steaks, making it an excellent choice for a celebratory dinner.

Price: AU$60 - AU$110+ per person (approx. US$40 - US$74+)

Getting There: Situated in the East End, Jana Restaurant & Bar is within walking distance of many central Newcastle accommodations. Local buses are also available.

3. Blanca Honeysuckle

Cuisine: Coastal Mediterranean

Blanca transports us to the Mediterranean coastline with its white-washed interior and inviting, airy ambiance at the Honeysuckle waterfront. We enjoy sharing the mezze-style plates, with highlights like coal-fired flatbread, burek, and grilled octopus. The setting is ideal for a lingering meal with friends or a romantic dinner, offering refreshing harbour breezes.

Price: AU$40 - AU$70+ per person (approx. US$27 - US$47+)

Getting There: Blanca is conveniently located in the Honeysuckle precinct, easily walkable from Newcastle Interchange and many city centre hotels. Light rail and buses also operate along the waterfront.

4. Antojitos

Cuisine: Californian-Mexican Street Food

Stepping into Antojitos in Newcastle West feels like discovering a bustling taqueria, complete with a quirky indoor Kombi van. We find the atmosphere laid-back and family-friendly, serving up thousands of freshly made burritos and tacos annually. The menu focuses on authentic, kick-ass Mexican street food, perfect for a casual and flavourful meal without breaking the bank.

Price: AU$15 - AU$30 per person (approx. US$10 - US$20)

Getting There: Antojitos is located in Newcastle West. It is accessible by bus from the city centre, or a short taxi/rideshare.

5. Nagisa Japanese Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern Japanese

Overlooking the harbour in Honeysuckle, Nagisa offers an upbeat yet sophisticated Japanese dining experience. We appreciate its long-standing reputation for fresh, authentic Japanese fare, from exquisite sashimi and gyoza to wagyu beef tataki. The option to dine alfresco on balmy evenings or experience the Teppanyaki bar adds to its appeal for both intimate dinners and group gatherings.

Price: AU$50 - AU$90+ per person (approx. US$34 - US$60+)

Getting There: Nagisa is situated directly on Honeysuckle Drive, making it easily accessible by walking from central areas, or via light rail and bus services.

6. Humbug

Cuisine: Globally Inspired, Italian-leaning with Asian Accents

Humbug on Hunter Street is a sophisticated yet casual neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar. We are drawn to its continually evolving menu, which expertly blends Italian-leaning dishes with Asian accents, often featuring handmade pasta and an impressive wine list. It provides a unique and memorable dining experience, ideal for foodies and couples seeking something distinctive.

Price: AU$40 - AU$70 per person (approx. US$27 - US$47)

Getting There: Located in the heart of Newcastle's CBD on Hunter Street, Humbug is within comfortable walking distance of most central accommodations and accessible via light rail.

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