Foodie spots to hit up post-quarantine
- Brianna Seedsman
- Jun 25, 2020
- 4 min read
"What are your hobbies? What do you do with all your spare time?"
Eat.
This is a stock-standard question and response for me when it comes to dating or meeting new friends, and it's entirely true. I LOVE to sniff out new foodie spots that have just hit the market, or old classics that have gone previously unnoticed.
One of my favourite pasta dishes was found by chance at an unassuming cafe on Uber that I have vowed to visit in person sometime soon (once I can eat pasta again).
Similarly, being introduced to a friend or family members favourite spot feels like a dive into the deepest part of their lives; they're willing to share with you something that makes them happy and fulfilled. It makes me feel the same.
With our social restrictions easing and cafes, pubs, and restaurants now allowing 50 customers, it's time to enjoy a good feed from a favourite.
Here are some of my favourite foodie spots that I have discovered or been introduced to over the last couple of years.
A bit of a trek from Sydney, but this cafe is worth it!
Located along the main road (Government Road), this local favourite is constantly packed, and you may have to wait for a table but trust me, the food is well worth it.
If a constantly changing, seasonal menu and use of the best local and interstate produce there is isn't enticing enough, the stunning views of the harbour are sure to lure you in.
Catering widely for those that are gluten-free and vegetarian, and with an extensive drink list to make any smoothie-nut go wild, you'll be struggling to pick just one thing off the menu.
Connected to Hotel Nelson (formerly The Nelson Resort) and just a short car ride or walk from all the local resorts and holiday parks, you're sure to make a trip (or many) to this staple.
Located at 3/7 Government Road, Nelson Bay
Again, a bit off the beaten track, but definitely worth a visit at least once, even if you're not a dessert lover.
Located along Broke Road, Pokolbin (or Hunter Valley for the city folk), Sabor Dessert Bar is a favourite among frequent visitors to the area, so be sure to book ahead if you want a table. With views of a stretching vineyard, you'll be in heaven enjoying a coffee and a treat or two here.
Make sure to come with an empty stomach and plenty of time to spare; it will take you at least 5 or 10 minutes just to decide on one thing! Or, my go-to is always a share plate of some description, so I can try multiple goodies in nice bite-sized pieces.
As someone who's not super fussed on desserts, this is one of my favourite places in the area, and I always make sure to visit whenever I'm out wine tasting. They cater towards the super sweet tooths, as well as those of us who prefer something a little more savoury.
Located at 2342 Broke Road, Pokolbin
Once you actually find this place, it's well worth the slight walk from the train station (Museum Station is only a few minutes up the road).
Described as a lively American-style dinner, I think it is more fitting of a 1920's speakeasy. The low light, exposed wood and brick and well-stocked bar make it feel like a secret club (whoops) that only the exclusive know about.
They host weekly movie nights and have live music and DJ's, so be sure to check their website and social media pages for the latest events posted. Booking a table ahead is important; it can get quite crowded and you don't want to be left with bad seats.
The menu is friendly to the younger crowd with burgers and hot dogs making a well-deserved appearance. Make sure you order some sides to share with the table; the jalapeno poppers are particularly good (and not too spicy either).
Located at 16 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills
One for all my westies! It's not actually that hard to find amazing food that caters towards all walks of life in the suburbs.
I came across this cafe/restaurant by chance with my mum on our routine weekend coffee date.
Sharing the Vegan Breakfast, we instantly knew this was a boast-worthy cafe and vowed to come back every time we were in the area.
The Vietnamese-Australian fusion dishes means there's something for everyone to try and it's not too far out of the comfort zone!
An extensive dinner menu will have you almost overwhelmed with choice. If you've got a table of four, try the banquet menu to get a taste of the favourites.
The friendly staff make this place even better and they are always ready to offer a helping hand or opinion on what to try if you're a newbie.
Located at 5 Emerald Hills Blvd, Leppington
Just up the road from Kings Cross Station, this restaurant/bar is unassuming at the door but insanely stunning once you cross the threshold.
Right up front on street level is Juanita's Bar, which pays homage to former resident and journalist Juanita Nielsen. Enjoy an extensive list of cocktails and bar snacks before heading to dinner.
Downstairs is the main restaurant; the cuisine is Ibero-American, which comprises Spanish or Portuguese speaking territories and is made to be shared; think tapas but fancier!
Ask for a seat on the patio and you'll get gorgeous panoramic views of the city skyline. It's almost enough to tempt you into moving into the area.
Head on up there on a Sunday for bottomless lunch; 2 hours of bottomless bubbles and a shared lunch for $88pp, or visit for a lunch date (during the week is quiet so you'll always get the best viewing tables.
Located at 123 Victoria Street, Potts Point
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