Insider’s guide to
Newcastle
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INSIDE
MAJOR EVENTS GUIDE P11
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
04 CAFÉS
AREA MAP Our guide to getting around the hotspots
06 RESTAURANTS
Got a bucket list? Get these experiences on it!
ANNA KUCERA
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Fine dining and fast snacks
10 CREATIVE HUBS
From Sydney or Melbourne, it’s just two hours away
CITY EVENTS GUIDE
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The coolest venues and hottest coffee shots
TEN NEWCASTLE MUST-DOS GETTING THERE
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A drinks scene to quench every thirst and taste
Welcome to a city for everyone
11 MARKETS GUIDE
Plan your visit around annual and one-off highlights
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Vibrant villages east and west: a spotter’s guide Where to browse for produce and craft
2 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
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CAZADOR
ANNA KUCERA
ANNA KUCERA
03 BARS
ABOUT NEWCASTLE
ANNA KUCERA
ANNA KUCERA
THE BOGEY HOLE
SUSPENSION ESPRESSO
MELT
Where the land kisses the sea you’ll find Newcastle – Awabakal land and a city rich on the fruits of soil, sea and sky but fueled these days by people power. Coal, steel and timber used to be her lifeblood. Today, Newcastle’s cafés mine the “black gold,” art emporiums act as the furnace for creativity, and the only chop you’ll hear is from the surf. Could a city so perfectly formed truly be a secret? Not since Lonely Planet named Newcastle one of the Top Ten Must See cities in the world in 2011. And certainly not after you’ve read this second Time Out Insider’s Guide to Newcastle. Few modern cities have Newcastle’s charms. Like Sydney, you’ll find bush and beaches side by side. As in Melbourne, fine dining shares space with hip bars, cafés and retail. Craft beer and waterside dining are as accessible in Newcastle as in Perth. And when it comes to wine country and regional cuisine, even Adelaide blushes when Newcastle and the Hunter Valley pool their pleasures. To locals, it’s home – where the heart is, where the future is bright. To visitors it could be anything. Welcome to Newcastle... what will it be to you? Time Out
THE EMPORIUM
Print & Digital Publishing Pty Ltd 41 Bridge Rd, Glebe NSW 2037 Tel +61 2 8239 5990 Insider’s guide to Newcastle Guide Editor Nick Dent Contributors Gemma der Kinderen, Angus Fontaine, Joel Meares, Laura Parker, Myffy Rigby, Claire Sandford, Philip Wyndham Lead Designer Robert Polmear Junior Designers Natalie Lau, David Horne Photography Anna Kucera Account Manager Justin Steinlauf Executive CEO Michael Rodrigues Executive Director Justin Etheridge Creative Director Phil Bunting Group Editor Nick Dent Cover Chris Johnston and Chris Joannou at the Edwards by Anna Kucera Print & Digital Publishing Pty Ltd (ABN 50 125 441 812) under the authority and in collaboration with Time Out International Limited London UK. Time Out ® is the registered trademark of Time Out Group Limited, London UK. The right to use the trademark, name and logo of “Time Out” are licensed from Time Out Group Limited London UK. © 2010. Printed by Webstar, Bluestar Group, 83 Derby Street Silverwater, NSW 2128. bspga.com.au. Reproduction in whole or in part is not permitted without the written permission of the publisher and Time Out Group Limited. The publishers regret that they cannot accept liability for errors or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. The opinions and views contained in this publication are not necessarily the views of the publishers.
3 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
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15 Blackbird Corner 16 Olive Tree Markets 17 Hunter Street Mall 18 Auld & Grey Antique 19 Islington Markets 20 Inner City Winemakers 21 Honeybee 22 House of Elliott 23 Centenary Antiques
24 Coliseum Antiques 25 Ramjet 26 Bluestar Elements 27 Guanabana
BARS 28 The Albion 29 5 Sawyers 30 Bar Petite 31 The Grain Store 32 Honeysuckle Hotel 33 Great Northern 34 Reserve Wine Bar 35 Le Passe-Temps 36 The Landing 37 James Squire Bar 38 The Edwards 39 The Burwood Inn 40 Terrace Bar
CAFÉS 41 One Penny Black 42 Goldbergs 43 III Beans Espresso 44 Sprocket 45 Wickham Motorcycle Co
46 Bank Corner 47 Rolador 48 Suspension Espresso 49 Glee Coffee Roasters 50 Dark Horse 51 Good Brother Espresso 52 Estabar
RESTAURANTS 53 Subo 54 Rustica 55 Soul Foods 56 Paymasters 57 DeLucas 58 Cazador 59 Restaurant Mason 60 Scotties 61 Bocados 62 Merewether Surfhouse 63 Casa de Loco 64 Talulah 65 Depot on Darby
ACCOMMODATION 66 Novotel Newcastle Beach 67 Crowne Plaza Newcastle
5 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
68 Chifley Apartments Honeysuckle 69 Boulevard on Beaumont 70 Quality Hotel Noah’s on the Beach 71 Apollo International Hotel Charlestown 72 Chifley Executive Suites 73 Gateway Inn Mayfield 74 Newcastle’s B&B 75 Clarendon Hotel 76 Quest Newcastle Apartments 77 Ibis Newcastle 78 Travelodge Newcastle 79 E xecutive Inn New Lambton 80 Brezza Bella B&B 81 Chaucer Palms B&B 82 The Beach Hotel 83 Mercure Charlestown 84 Merewether Beachhouse B&B 85 Backpackers by the Beach Newcastle 86 Stockton Beach Holiday Park 87 YHA Newcastle 88 Ibis Budget
SECTION ATTRACTIONS HEADER
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MUST-DO NEWCASTLE Newcastle offers plenty for everyone. Here are ten essential experiences…
ANNA KUCERA
03 WHALE WATCHING Thousands of whales make an annual migration through Newcastle’s heads from May-Aug, returning in Oct-Nov. Find it www.wildaboutwhales. Whale watching tours: www.novacruises.com.au.
01
01 EXPLORE BATHERS WAY
02 GET THE SKINNY AT NEWCASTLE MUSEUM
The long, winding and spectacularly beautiful path from Honeysuckle to Nobbys Beach known as Bathers Way is perhaps the quintessential Newcastle experience. Foreshore Park is a picnic ground with views of the harbour, while the Bogeyhole rockpool and Lumber Yard evoke the convict past. Walked, jogged or biked, this lustrous stretch of coastline captures the collision of natural wonders and pioneering industry that make Newcastle one of the world’s unique and vibrant cities.
In a city moving forward so fast it pays to look back. And where better than this beautiful contemporary museum? As well as hosting special exhibitions and events, there’s a trinity of permanent spaces: Supernova is a hands-on science centre for kids. A Newcastle Story tells the tale of the town from Awabakal land to thriving metropolis. And Fire & Earth burns with stories of the coal and steel booms. Workshop Way, Newcastle 2300. 02 4974 1400. www.newcastlemuseum.com.au. Free.
6 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
ANNA KUCERA
03 GAZE ’N’ GRAZE ON DARBY STREET’S DINER MILE
Eat streets don’t get trendier or tastier than here. Studded with fashion gems in the form of galleries and boutiques, this feast for the eyes is matched by the cornucopia of restaurants and cafés on offer. Many cuisines are represented – Thai, Turkish, Italian, Greek, Mediterranean and Mexican – most utilising local produce, all with sensational results. Equally popular are the cafés: colourful, kooky, and jammed with characters sipping sublime house roasts and savouring sweet cakes and artisan bread.
04 DO THE TUNNEL TOUR AT FORT SCRATCHLEY
Built in 1882 to defend Newcastle against a feared Russian invasion, this fascinating military site offers a labyrinth of tunnels open to the public via hourly 45-minute guided tours. Hear how the fort repelled a Japanese submarine attack in 1942 (Scratchley is the only Aussie fort to see land-level action) and marvel at the massive cannons on-site. Nobbys Rd, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 3066. www.fortscratchley.com.au. $0-$15.
05 CATCH SOME CULTURE WITH A HOT TICKET SHOW
Theatre, ballet, buskers, club nights, live bands, major festivals... entertainment is everywhere in Newcastle and it’s happening daily, day and night. The Civic Theatre, built in 1929, is an Australian classic, hosting everyone from Dame Nellie Melba to the Jacksons, while Lizotte’s in Lambton offers shows by international acts with dinner in tow. Meanwhile, local bands look to emulate the world-beating feats of hometown heroes like Silverchair by strumming in pubs like the Cambridge and Great Northern, while global DJ stars spin the night away at King Street Hotel. www.eventfinder.com.au; www.visitnewcastle.com.au.
7 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
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BAR TSARS CHRIS JOANNOU & CHRIS JOHNSTON
08 SHOP ’TIL YOU DROP ON HUNTER STREET MALL
Newcastle’s cultural renaissance has been fueled in large part by Renew Newcastle, an innovative mob of movers and shakers who take vacant, disused or derelict spaces in the CBD and lend them to artists, cultural projects and community groups to activate shops, talks, shows and more. The success of the program is that the empty urban tract that was once Hunter Street Mall has become a pulsating network of studios, boutiques, and quirky retail outlets injecting life into the city. Look no further than the Emporium, once the city’s biggest department store, but now a haven for mixed media art, interactive design, hand-hewn crafts and endless curiosities. renewnewcastle.org.
Chris and Chris, how did you guys team up? Johnston: Through a mutual friend. Chris already had the building, and we had similar ideas. Joannou: This building was previously my parents’ drive-through dry cleaners. The beer taps [utilise] the old steam presses and the light fittings are the old drums out of the dryers. Johnston: We’ve got a little coin-operated laundry kicking off soon in the front room, paying homage to the history of the building.
Silverchair have been on hiatus since 2011 – are you ready to drop everything to go and record or tour? Joannou: Music is definitely my first love! But look, there’s nothing on the horizon or near future. It’s just been great to have something to pour heaps of energy into. There’s a great creative element in this.
MELT
Coal used to be the darkest seam scything through Newcastle, but the new boom resource is coffee. Cafés are bubbling into life on corners, in malls and arcades and as holes-in-the-wall all over town, many using locally roasted beans, some running on recycled bio-fuels and plenty offering “suspended coffees” (donated cuppas for the less fortunate). Much of the best coffee is in the east, home to cafés One Penny Black, Good Brother, Sprocket, Estabar, Ground Floor, Soul Foods and more.
10 TAKE A SEGWAY TOUR THROUGH HUNTER WETLANDS
ANNA KUCERA
07 GET OFF THE BEATEN TRACK AT BLACKBUTT RESERVE
Hemmed by coastline, blessed by beaches and with vast belts of bushland feeding its hills and valleys, Newcastle has a wild side well worth exploring. Blackbutt is 182 hectares of natural habitat – nature trails, wildlife exhibits, children’s facilities, picnic grounds and vast tracts of untouched native scrub. Along the way you’ll see wombats, rock wallabies, koalas and all manner of birdlife, either on leisurely strolls, guided hikes or spotlight trips under starshine. Carnley Ave, Kotara 2289. 02 4904 3344. www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/recreation.
SOUL FOODS
09 SIP THE “BLACK MILE” OF CAFÉS IN NEWCASTLE EAST
THE BOGEY HOLE THE BOGEY HOLE Hand-carved from ancient rock by convicts in 1819, this now iconic swim spot is named for the Dharawal word ‘to bathe’. Find it Beneath the headland in King Edward Park.
8 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
Internationally regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful and unique wetlands, this breathtaking ecosystem of 45 hectares is brimming with life. You can explore alone or with a guide, on foot or by kayak, bike or segway. The latter eco tour is the only one of its kind in NSW and a fun, safe way to get around the varied terrain. 1 Wetlands Pl, Shortland 2307. 02 4951 6466. www.wetlands.org.au.
ANNA KUCERA
Newcastle has always been a thirsty town but a new wave of watering holes has sparked up its bar scene. The fine bones of old buildings are being dusted off by youthful entrepreneurs intent on bringing sophisticated drinks, inspired food, quirky décor and fantastic entertainment to the fore. Check out the Edwards (115 Darby St, see right), Coal & Cedar (Hunter St), Reserve Wine Bar (102 Hunter St), Le Passe-Temps (73-75 Hunter St), Bar Petite (5/5 King St) and the Grain Store (64 Scott St).
We hear the former drive-through area is used as a ‘creative space’… Joannou: We’ve been having lots of events out here: Idea Bombing, the Lunaticks Society, the Writers’ Festival. It’s about reengagement with the community and wanting to give back. ANNA KUCERA
06 DO THE TOWN VIA A BOHEMIAN BAR CRAWL
ANNA KUCERA
CHRIS JOHNSTON & CHRIS JOANNOU
SOUL FOODS
GHOST TOURS Newcastle’s dark side is a fascinating place to unearth mischief, mayhem and all manner of dark Novocastrian magic. Find it newcastleghosttours.com.au.
What is the concept behind the Edwards? Johnston: Beer, food and laundry! We want it to be a great place to drink, a great place to eat, and to wash your dirty undies [laughs].
06
ANNA KUCERA
In February 2014, erstwhile Silverchair bass player Chris Joannou and café owner Chris Johnston (Suspension Espresso) opened the Edwards. It’s a first for Newcastle West: a big, lively, stylish bar-café-diner with a sideline in laundry.
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SURF SCHOOLS “All you need is a friend and a beach to be free,” they reckon, so school up and drop in with some lessons from the pros. Find it www.newcastlesurfschool.com.
9 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
SECTION ESSENTIAL HEADER INFO
HOW TO GET THERE & WHERE TO STAY From deluxe hotels to cosy hostels, Newcastle offers a heap of places to hang your hat TO POR T STEPHENS NE LSO NB AY RD
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DIRECTIONS FROM SYDNEY
Car Newcastle is an easy two-hour drive north and accessible from the M1, Pacific Highway, New England Highway and Golden Highway. Train Return services run daily from Sydney; travel time is 2.5-3 hours. Timetables and fares: www.cityrail.info or 131 500.
PETER BOWER
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DIRECTIONS FROM MELBOURNE
Air Newcastle has the fastest growing regional airport in Australia offering daily direct flights. The airport is 30 mins from the Newcastle CBD. www.newcastleairport.com. Car Newcastle is a ten-hour drive north on the M31 so consider a diversion to Canberra en route.
SOME ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS...
EAST END: Backpackers by the Beach Newcastle (backpackersbythebeach.com.au); Chifley Executive Suites (www.chifleyhotels.com.au); Novotel Newcastle Beach (www.novotel.com/newcastle); Quality Hotel NOAH’S on the Beach (www.noahsonthebeach.com.au); YHA Newcastle (www3.yha.com.au). HONEYSUCKLE: Chifley Apartments Honeysuckle (www.chifleyhotels.com.au); Clarendon Hotel (www.clarendonhotel.com.au); Crowne Plaza Newcastle (www.crowneplaza.com). WEST END: The Albion (www.thealbion.com.au); Chaucer Palms Bed & Breakfast (www.chaucerpalms.com.au); Ibis Newcastle (www.ibis.com/newcastle); Quest Newcastle Apartments (www.questapartments.com.au); Travelodge Newcastle (www.travelodge.com.au). MEREWETHER: The Beach Hotel (www.thebeachhotel.com.au); Brezza Bella Bed & Breakfast (www.brezzabella.com. au); Merewether Beach House Bed and Breakfast (merewetherbeachhousebandb.com.au). ELSEWHERE: Apollo International Hotel Charlestown (www.apollohotelnewcastle.com.au); Boulevard on Beaumont (www. boulevardonbeaumont.com.au); Executive Inn New Lambton (www.executiveinn.com.au); Gateway Inn Mayfield (www. gatewayinn.net.au); Ibis Budget (www.accor hotels.com); Mercure Charlestown (www.mercure.com); Newcastle’s Bed and Breakfast (www.newcastles bedandbreakfast.com.au); Stockton Beach Holiday Park (stocktonbeach.com).
For more accommodation options go to www.visitnewcastle.com.au. 10 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
HAMILTON LUND
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MAJOR EVENTS GUIDE THERE’S ALWAYS SOMETHING HAPPENING IN NEWCASTLE...
GO THE KNIGHTS AND JETS!
FAT AS BUTTER MUSIC FESTIVAL
Watch two of Newcastle’s biggest sporting teams defend their home turf at Hunter Stadium
Kick back with sun, sea and tunes at this popular music festival on the Newcastle coast
Opened by Queen Elizabeth II in 1970, Newcastle’s Hunter Stadium is home to two of the region’s best sporting teams: the Newcastle Knights and the Newcastle Jets. The Jets compete in Australia’s premier soccer competition, the A-league, and have won the championship once, in 2008; the next season commences in October. Playing in red and blue, the Knights have won two NRL premierships over the years (in 1997 and again in 2001) and the team has been home to players including rugby legend Andrew Johns and Danny Buderus. Watch the Knights play at Hunter Stadium throughout June, July and August 2014. Turton Rd, Broadmeadow 2292. 02 4903 3800. hunterstadium.com.au.
One of the region’s most anticipated events, the Fat as Butter Music Festival brings good tunes and festival vibes to Newcastle’s beautiful shoreline. The oneday event featuring rock, pop, hip hop and electronica has attracted acts including Ice Cube, Good Charlotte, Wolfmother, Tame Impala, Empire of the Sun, the Dandy Warhols, the Living End, Naughty by Nature, Birds of Tokyo, Owl Eyes, the Rubens, and Bliss N Eso. The festival for ages 15+ also features a seated dining area as well as a number of on-site bars serving coffee, snacks, and alcoholic beverages. The Foreshore, Newcastle. www.fatasbutter. com.au. Oct 2014. Ticket price TBC.
NEWCASTLE JETS FANS AT A GAME
THIS IS NOT ART FESTIVAL
HIT THE BRICKS
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HIT THE BRICKS
Street art stars converge on Newcastle to turn blank walls across the city into canvases
Participate in one of Australia’s biggest emerging arts festivals over four days during October Taking over Newcastle’s back streets, the 2014 This is Not Art (TiNA) Festival will feature more than 400 local, national and international writers, performers and visual artists. One of Australia’s leading contemporary and emerging arts festivals, TiNA’s focus is providing artists and audiences with a forum for discussing ideas that belong outside traditional institutions, fostering collaboration and discovery. Artists will be showcasing their work during the fourday festival, which will include everything from live music, theatre, workshops, forums, late-night readings, parlour games, parties and more. Around Newcastle. thisisnotart.floktu.com. Oct 3-6, 2014.
FAT AS BUTTER
TINA
Over three days in November 2013, leading practitioners of street art including Beastman, Numskull, Askew One, Grizzle, Mike Watt and Phibs created work (with permission) in 13 locations across Newcastle. Hit the Bricks festival will return in 2014 with a fresh line-up of talent, who will create vibrant, surreal and thought-provoking murals over one weekend while the public looks on. Maps of art locations will be provided and a bike tour will take place to transport viewers from wall to wall. Food and drink will be provided in certain locations, there’ll be a public Street Art Panel, and a Hit the Bricks shop. The event is organised by Look Hear, specialists in creative workshops, presentations and exhibitions. www. lookhear.com.au/about-hit-the-bricks/. Nov.
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NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY
ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT Get your culture fix with exciting performances and exhibitions JAMES MORRISON: THE MOTOWN SHOW
ABSURDIA: NOEL MCKENNA
OUR PUBS
TINA ARENA
Fri Jun 27, Lizottes Newcastle Jazz legend James Morrison presents an arrangement of classic Motown songs, performed with a 11-piece band. www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au. Until Jun 29, Newcastle Museum This exhibition features photos of pubs in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley taken in 1959, and includes a guided tour of old pubs. www.newcastlemuseum.com.au.
Aug 23-Nov 16, Newcastle Art Gallery This exhibition of the Sydney-based artist includes sculpture, paintings and ceramics involving absurdist twists on serious issues. www.nag.org.au. Sun Sep 7, Civic Theatre Arena will perform songs from throughout her stellar international career, as well as her latest hit album Reset. www.civictheatre newcastle.com.au.
LORDE
KILGOUR PRIZE 2014
K A T E M I L L E R- H E I D K E
J E S U S C H R I S T S U P E R S TA R
Sat Jul 19, Newcastle Entertainment Centre The NZ musical prodigy who conquered the world with her single ‘Royals’ finally returns on her triumphant world tour. www.nec.net.au. Fri Aug 22, Civic Theatre Fresh from her first UK headline tour, the angelic-voiced ‘Last Day on Earth’ singer performs songs from new album O Vertigo! www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
Nov 8-Jan 25, Newcastle Art Gallery This annual prize for figurative and portrait painting awards $50,000 for the most outstanding entry. www.nag.org.au. Mar 11-14 2015, Civic Theatre The Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice rock opera comes to the Civic with a 36-piece orchestra and a cast of 50 performers and dancers. www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.
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AFC ASIAN CUP AUSTRALIA 2015 Asia’s biggest football competition comes to Newcastle International football tournament the AFC Asian Cup will be hosted for the first time in Australia in January 2015. The cup will be played in five host cities across Australia including Newcastle, and will feature 16 international teams. Newcastle will host four important games including a semi-final. Does Australia have what it takes to defeat reigning champions Japan and reverse the result of the devastating 2011 final in Qatar, when Japan scored in the 20th minute of extra time? Newcastle Stadium. www.afcasiancup.com. Tickets $15-$99. Jan 12-30, 2015. The following AFC Asian Cup games will be played in Newcastle at Newcastle Stadium: Mon Jan 12, 2015 6pm Japan vs Palestine
Sat Jan 17, 2015 8pm Oman vs Kuwait
Tue Jan 27, 2015 8pm Semi-Final 2
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Fri Jan 30, 2015 8pm AFC ASIAN CUP 3rd/4th Playoff
COMING IN 2015
HOT DEALS
Visit Newcastle in the first half of the New Year for these great events
Get more bang for your buck with these exclusive deals on dining, accommodation and attractions. Show this copy of Time Out Insider’s Guide to Newcastle to redeem, or quote the booking code for online and phone bookings. All deals are valid until June 30, 2015
A U S T R A L I A DAY N AT I O N A L M A R I T I M E F E S T I VA L
BABBINGTONS BAR AND GRILL
Mon Jan 26, 2015 This celebration kicks off with a citizenship ceremony and continues with free port tours, water-ski races, helicopter tours, boat building, maritime displays and exhibits, theatre performances, talks, market stalls, food and children’s activities.
Enjoy one free main course when another of equal or greater value is purchased. 288290 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown 2290. 02 4943 6733. www.apollointernational.com.au. Quote code: TIME OUT
MCGOURT Y’S CAFÉ DELI
SURFEST
Feb 2015 The annual competition began in 1985 and has since grown into the largest surfing festival in the Southern Hemisphere. Surfest 2014 saw more than 800 national and international competitors participating in events at Merewether Beach over 11 days.
SURFEST
Feb-Mar 2015 Venues around Newcastle will host tastings, dinners, brewing parties, a beer festival and a craft beer showcase. Brewers from around the country will participate.
Mar 20-22, 2015 The 2014 festival was held at various innercity venues, featuring talks, readings and workshops with local and national writers including Wendy Harmer, Tim Ferguson, Wendy James and Linda Jaivin.
PORT TO PORT MTB CLASSIC
May-Jun 2015 The four-day race takes cyclists of all skill levels on a scenic ride throughout Newcastle, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley, with a spectacular finish at the famous Nobbys Lighthouse.
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HUNTER WETLANDS CENTRE
T R E E T O P A DV E N T U R E P A R K
N E W C A S T L E K AYA K T O U R S
INNER CIT Y WINEMAKERS
N E W C A S T L E ’ S B E D A N D B R E A K FA S T
N O VA C R U I S E S
S T O C K T O N B E A C H H O L I DAY P A R K
Get a free cheese platter with a wine tasting session, plus a 10% off wines purchased. Max four people per booking. 28 Church St, Wickham 2293. 02 4962 3545. www.innercitywinemakers.com.au. Tue-Sun 10am-6pm. Quote code: 1415
N E W C A S T L E W R I T E R S F E S T I VA L
NEWCASTLE CRAFT BEER WEEK
Buy one adult tunnel tour and get a second tour at the concession rate. 1 Nobbys Rd, Newcastle 2300. 02 4974 5033. www.fortscratchley.com.au. Tue-Sun 10am-4pm. Quote code: TIME OUT
Your Civic Theatre ticket gets you two main meals and a bottle of Hunter Valley wine for just $60 at McGourty’s. 375 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 1977. www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au. Quote code: TIME OUT
Get 2-for-1 on adult, child, junior & conc climbs. Online bookings only; not valid night climbs. Minmi Rd, Minmi 2287. 02 4026 7617. www.treetopadventurepark. com.au. Quote code: TONTTNT14
NEWCASTLE CRAF T BEER WEEK
FORT STRATCHLE Y HISTORIC SITE
Get 10% off full rate. Discount applies to cruise tickets only and can only be applied at time of booking. 3 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle 2300. 0400 381 787. www.novacruises.com.au. Quote code: TIMEOUT 1415
When you hire a canoe, you also score free entry into the wetlands. 1 Wetlands Pl, Shortland 2307. 02 4951 6466. wetlands.org.au. Daily 9am-4pm. Quote code: TOFECH14
Take ten percent off any kayak tour of your choosing when you explore the waters of Newcastle. 0468 929 152. www.newcastlekayaktours.com.au. Quote code: TIME OUT
Book a bed and get a complimentary breakfast. Minimum two-night stay and subject to availability. 9 Morehead St, Lambton 2299. 02 4952 7887. www. newcastlesbedandbreakfast.com.au. Quote code: TOIG2N
For a limited time they are offering Time Out readers a 10% discount on all accommodation types capped at $40. 3 Pitt St, Stockton 2295. 02 4928 1393. stocktonbeach.com/timeout. Quote code: TIME OUT
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REGIONAL EVENTS GUIDE Newcastle’s surrounding areas host festivals, fun runs and concerts galore
Jun 6-9, Port Stephens This festival takes place across different venues in the Port Stephens area, attracting established artists in a weekend-long celebration of music, art and community. wwwbluewatercountrymusic.com.au.
P O R T S T E P H E N S F I L M F E S T I VA L
Aug 14-17, Nelson Bay This new festival celebrates independent filmmakers, including local and international talent across all genres of film. Successful entries are screened at a moonlight cinema overlooking the waters of Shoal Bay. www.portstephensfilmfestival.com.au.
H U N T E R VA L L E Y W I N E F E S T I VA L
Sat Oct 11, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley This community event features wine, food, beer, cider, family and kid-friendly activities, entertainment, and lots of free tastings. www.huntervalleywinefestival.com.
T H E S TA M P E D E
Sat Oct 18, Glenworth Valley This epic challenge features a grueling 5km or 10km obstacle course comprised of mud, cargo nets, a giant slip and slide, and live wires charged with 10,000 volts. www.thestampede.com.au.
CHROMEFEST
HUNTER VALLEY WINE TASTING B R I S B A N E WA T E R O Y S T E R F E S T I VA L
Sun Nov 9, Ettalong Foreshore The festival showcases the oyster-farming industry of the Woy Woy Peninsula with more than 100 food and wine stalls, art and craft, horse riding and activites for kids. www.oysterfestival.com.au.
THE ROLLING STONES
Sat Nov 15, Hope Estate Pokolbin Mick, Keith and the band bring satisfaction to Aussie fans one more time, with an extra date to their 14 on Fire tour at the Hope Estate winery. www.hopeestate.com.au.
C H R I S T M A S L I G H T S S P E C TA C U L A R
Nov 7-Jan 26, Hunter Valley Gardens Spanning 20 of the Gardens’ 60 acres, the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular will return with more than 1.5 million lights in breathtaking displays. www. huntervalleygardens.com.au.
INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S GAMES
Oct 24-26, Central Coast Classic American autos, hot rods, dragsters and low-rider bicycles are on display, plus street cruises, live performances, nightly dances, rockabilly street stalls, and the Miss Pinup Doll Australia. www.chromefest.org.
Dec 6-11, Lake Macquarie The largest multi-sport children’s games in the world come to Lake Macquarie – the first ever Southern Hemisphere city to host them – with around 1,500 athletes aged 12-15 competing in eight groups of sports. icg-lakemacquarie2014.com.
JAZZ IN THE VINES
CMC ROCKS THE HUNTER
Sat Oct 25, Tyrrell’s Vineyard, Hunter Valley Unroll the picnic blanket, pop the sparkling wine and watch some of Australia’s best jazz performers in the beautiful surroundings of the Brokenback Mountains. www.jazzinthevines.com.au.
Mar 14-16, Hope Estate Pokolbin This three-day country music festival will feature country music from USA artists Clay Walker, Thompson Square and Kellie Pickler plus locals James Reyne and Shane Nicholson. www.chuggentertainment.com.
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PETER RYLE
B L U E WAT E R C O U N T R Y & B L U E S M U S I C F E S T I VA L
BARS
BARS Whatever your taste, Newcastle brims with diverse and sophisticated drinks experiences
ANNA KUCERA
THE EDWARDS
THE EDWARDS Silverchair’s Chris Joannou has teamed up with Chris Johnston and Tim Leveson to convert Joannou’s parents’ old drive-in laundromat into a big, friendly, bar-restaurant-café. Taps dispense blue-collar brews and the odd craft offering; Amaretto Sours and Caprioskas are $16 a pop; and food is hearty, wood fired and smoked. 148 Parry St, Newcastle West 2302. 02 4965 3845.
5 SAWYERS
This quirkily furnished sippery on the Darby Street strip is doing cheeky cocktails and craft beers with locally sourced and perfectly chargrilled tapas in tow. 115 Darby St, Cooks Hill 2300. 02 4927 0070. www.5sawyers.com.au.
COAL & CEDAR
This fairylight-festooned bar serves well-crafted cocktails and boutique beers but specialises in gorgeous local drops by the glass. 5 King St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 3033. www.barpetite.com.au.
Newcastle’s most chic bar doesn’t advertise their exact address – you’ll have to ask a local. The unmarked door leads you into a speakeasy right out of the American prohibition era. Take your seat at the long wooden bar, while nattily dressed ’tenders make Old Fashioneds and Caiprinhas ($18 each). Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. coalandcedar.com.
THE GRAIN STORE
LE PASSE-TEMPS
BAR PETITE
This rustic oasis showcases its finest regional brews. A grain store since 1885, it’s now home to 21 eclectic tap beers, best sampled with one of five “Ale Dogs” featured on a cool menu. 64 Scott St, Newcastle East 2300. 02 4023 2707. grainstorenewcastle.com.au.
Le Passe-Temps occupies a grand former bank. Staff are French, as is the theme – wines span all the Gallic regions from Bordeaux to the Dordogne. It’s hen’s night central here. 73-75 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4910 4060. le-passe-temps.com.au.
19 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
BARS BARS
SECTION HEADER
CAFÉS
RESERVE WINE BAR
ANNA KUCERA
Coal used to be Newcastle’s currency. Now it’s coffee. And the streets are full of black gold
ANNA KUCERA
The wine list encompasses more than 350 wines – good thing they have the downstairs former bank vaults to store them in. How about some oysters with your wine ($3 each) or chilli-dusted school prawns and aioli ($12)? “We are not a restaurant” the website modestly admits, but the food here hits the mark. This place is all class. 102 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 3393. reservewinebar.com.au.
HOT FIVE NIGHTSPOTS
HONEYSUCKLE HOTEL Two levels of water views, cocktails and a dedicated rum bar. Lot 31, Wharf C, Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle. 02 4929 1499. GREAT NORTHERN East End hub for live, original music. 83-89 Scott St, Newcastle. 02 4925 3551.
KING STREET HOTEL Dance capital for late-night revellers. 15 Steel St, Newcastle West. 02 4927 8855.
Newcastle’s answer to Bondi Icebergs has ocean views and an awesome array of food.A swish café on the promenade does lavish breakfasts, the beachside pizza shop does pies and gelati, while the Surfhouse grill on the top level is a marvel of mod-Oz cuisine from Damien Pignolet. Henderson Pde, Merewether Beach 2291. 02 4918 0000. www.surfhouse.com.au.
THE BURWOOD INN
One of only 15 NSW pubs awarded ‘3 Schooners’ in the 2014 Sydney Morning Herald Good Pub Food Guide, the Burwood Inn has $8 cocktail deals on Fridays and a good list of wines and craft beers. 77 Berner St, Merewether 2291. 02 4963 5000.
20 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
Newcastle makes an artform of reclaimed spaces and, having won back this grand room from a fried chicken chain, Soul Foods can claim a victory for slow food over fast food. The tucker here is cooked at a huge open kitchen, and hits the table chemicalfree and crackling with local flavours. 227 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4926 3310.
SOUL XX FOODS
ONE PENNY BLACK
This frenetic nook crawls with all creeds of coffee devotee rhapsodising about pitch-perfect Black Star beans artfully extracted by owner Garth Buchanan. The other ecstasy here are the lip-smacking toasties. A Bombay Bantam comes with free-range chook turbo-charged by labna, spicy eggplant and almonds. 111 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 0421 506 651.
ANNA KUCERA
THE GATEWAY Club G is Newcastle’s top LGBT venue. 139 Maitland Rd, Islington. 02 4969 1848.
MEREWETHER SURFHOUSE
SOUL FOODS
ANNA KUCERA
LIZOTTE’S Tuning up for a dinner gig? They don’t come cooler. 31 Morehead St, Lambton. 02 4956 2066.
MEREWETHER SURFHOUSE
ONE PENNY BLACK
ANNA KUCERA
RESERVE WINE BAR
SUSPENSION ESPRESSO
21 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
BARS
SECTION RESTAURANTS HEADER
RESTAURANTS
HOT SHOTS FRANKIES PLACE Retro-active café with killer coffee and a cute courtyard. 131 Darby St, Cooks Hill. 02 4925 3470. GOOD BROTHER ESPRESSO Menu by mum and a ripe cherry roast. 40 King St, Newcastle. 02 4023 3158. GROUND FLOOR Sublime 5 Senses coffee in art deco surrounds. 103 Hunter St, Newcastle. 02 4906 1798.
SALUNA
SALUNA Espresso and cold-filtered single-origin brews. 137 King St, Newcastle. 02 4023 8774.
ANNA KUCERA
Newcastle marches on its stomach... and culinary delights lurk around every corner
GLEE COFFEE ROASTERS A hip boutique for coffee and snacks. 155 Darby St, Cooks Hill. 0432 034 703.
This bohemian café originally opened as a roasters but their beans are now done in Sydney while staff focus on satisfying an eclectic clientele. The room is filled with Laminex dining tables and old couches, the walls are covered with for-sale art, and staff prepare top brews and foods behind a counter fashioned from old, green lockers laid on their sides. 3-5 Beaumont St, Islington 2296. 02 4962 2717.
SALUNA
SPROCKET ROASTERS
All-day breakfast and a magic cabinet of homemade cakes, muffins and savoury morsels elevate this sun-soaked café of quirky décor to greatness. Their award-winning Silverskin single origin conjures a princely piccolo and a Sunrise smoothie is a sublime sludge of passionfruit, mango, berries and banana. Service is warm and a Lego lounge makes for happy customers, old and young. A flip into night dining and drinking is imminent. 28 Alma Rd, New Lambton 2305. 02 4957 9998. www.thelocale.com.au.
Part laboratory, warehouse and rumpus room, Sprocket is many thing to many folks. Tea freaks come for London Fog (Earl Grey, steamed milk and vanilla), kids fizz for Pineapple Express hot chocolates, bean fiends exult about Guillermo (double ristretto with lime). Best of all, it’s all carbon neutral (the roaster runs on biofuel), there are take-home tins and a full “Suspended Coffee” ledger. Cute and kind. 68 Hunter St, Newcastle East 2300. 02 4009 1237. www.sprocketroasters.com.au.
SPROCKET
ANNA KUCERA
WICKHAM MOTORCYCLE COMPANY
Newcastle used to be blue collar to its muddy boots, but these days even the bikers are renaissance men. The two worlds collide wonderfully at this workshop café rolling out a locally roasted Wickham Blend beans from a funky warehouse that doubles as a motorcycle showroom. The brand-new industrial fitout features vintage motorcycles and the menu riding shotgun is studded with high-rev recipes – the burger is a stand-out – with homemade cakes and pastries. They hold occasional high teas, and Sunday long lunch is popular with the cool set who fuel-up on beers and DJs. 3 Throsby St, Wickham 2293. 02 4969 6525. www.wickhammotorcycles.com.
22 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
ANNA KUCERA
THE LOCALE
ANNA KUCERA
SUSPENSION ESPRESSO
CASA DE LOCO
SUBO
RUSTICA
CASA DE LOCO
PAYMASTERS
Smart, delicious food and excellent service makes Subo a leader among Newcastle fine diners. And why not when Beau and Suzie Vincent (aka Su-Bo) banged pans at Tetsuya’s, Guillaume and Claude’s. Their combined culinary wizardry keeps this tiny yet terrific dining room humming. 551D Hunter St, Newcastle West 2302. 02 4023 4048. subo.com.au.
The Stones play on vinyl at this Mexican diner where they serve more than 80 tequilas and mescals to wash down $7 soft tacos: braised beef, pork and cold prawn are super-tasty but the winner is the tempura fish. Share plates include tangy kingfish ceviche and an amazing blackened corn with chipotle mayo and a squeeze of lime. A tres leches cake comes with a nugget of toffeed popcorn. 10 Pacific St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 6828. www.casadeloco.com.au.
Decked out like a gothic Andalusian castle, this ambitious eatery merges Mediterranean and north African cuisines to scintillating effect. Generous charcuterie boards abound and the ballotine of juicy chicken and pancetta with meaty mushroom centre is moreish in the extreme. 2/1 King St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 3333. www.rustica.com.au.
Occupying a heritage building once home to the railway paymaster with views through the pines to the Harbour foreshore, this deluxe mod-Oz venue is where Novacastrians come to be watered and spoiled. Chef Rodney Scales offers unpretentious tasty dishes like blue swimmer crab bisque and linecaught squid stuffed with fetta, sundried tomatoes, pine nuts and mint. 18 Bond St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4925 2600. www.paymasters.com.au.
23 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
RESTAURANTS BARS
CAZADOR
SECTION CREATIVEHEADER HUBS
CREATIVE HUBS
SCOTTIES
Seaside breezes into the heart of Newcastle carry the sweet vapours of chef Jerarmie Heywood’s fine diner. His market-driven menu has the best of surf and turf, often united to brilliant effect. Pork belly and scallops, snapper with confit of lamb – curious combos but here, an inspired alchemy of yum. 36 Scott St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4926 3780.
Newcastle is a city of contrasts and you’ll discover every precinct has an identity all its own
EAST END
ANNA KUCERA
BOCADOS
Tapas temple, wine bar and cosy couples nirvana, Bocados is a rustic Spanish kitchen where ‘sharing is caring’... particularly when share plates come in the form of chimmichurri pork belly and larger dishes include lamb shanks liquifying off the bone, and fluffy paella studded with prawns and chilli. 25 King St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4925 2801. bocados.com.au.
CITY EVOLUTIONS
Great gusts of sea air barrel down the grand old streets of Newcastle’s East. But the winds of change most evident here are the glut of retro-charged cafés, indie galleries and pop-up shops blossoming from the urban decay. Peopled by an odd mob of professionals, priests, coastline hikers, interlopers, street folk and workers of yore, the East is entering a new phase in its renewal, a bright future crystallised by its City Evolutions night projections. Hotspots Casa de Loco, Sprocket, Fort Scratchley, Scotties, Restaurant Mason, Paymasters, the Grand, Newcastle Beach, the Bogey Hole, the Lock-Up.
HARRY’S SCHNITZEL JOINT
DELUCAS
Everything is made from scratch by hand at this buzzy BYO Italian bistro famous among locals for its pizzas, gutsy pastas and cheesy-rider garlic bread. Start with flash-fried bliss bomb arancini, ease into rich lamb shank pappardelle and bring it home with classic thin-crust pizza slick with tangy sugo and topped with top quality ingredients sourced locally. 159 Darby St, Cooks Hill 2300. 02 4929 3555.
On balmier evenings Cazador’s patrons spill out onto Hunter Street under a tangle of fairy lights. They’re here to enjoy Spanish wines, beers and cocktails like the Peahead: sugar-snap peas, basil and cucumber puree in a Martini glass with lime and Tanqueray. From the kitchen, share plates are the safest bet: light leek and pea arancini or rich pork meatballs in tomato sauce. 148 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4929 4880. www.cazador.com.au.
This upmarket bistro by Chris and Ami Thornton pulls a smart crowd via highly creative food like hen’s egg in a deep-fried potato shell swimming in yellow polenta with a side of autumn mushrooms. Elsewhere, a main of scallops comes as a trinity with housemade gnocco spiked with Moroccan spice ras el hanout. Try Mason’s carrot cake to taste earthy sweet flavours in perfect harmony. A narrow spongy slab is topped with an indecently young Dutch carrot, served with chai ice cream and a livid swoosh of carrot puree. 3/35 Hunter St, Newcastle 2300. 02 4926 1014. restaurantmason.com.
XX
A QUICK SIX STREET SNACKS... ROLADOR Hip café fixes a beaut burrito. 1 Beaumont St, Hamilton. 02 4969 1786. OMA’S KITCHEN Hearty and tasty German fare. 16 Watt St, Newcastle. 02 4927 5151. NATURAL TUCKER Organic groceries, baked tasties, deli delights. 108 Darby St, Cooks Hill. 02 4929 1229. HARRY’S SCHNITZEL JOINT Chicken schnitzels done just right. 200 Union St, The Junction. 02 4962 1773. HARRY’S CAFE DE WHEELS Meat pies with mushy peas and mash. 199 Wharf Rd, Newcastle. 02 4926 2165. BANK CORNER A real sweet spot for Viennese pastries. 2 Bellevue St, Newcastle West. 0488 400 510.
24 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
ANNA KUCERA
RESTAURANT MASON
ANNA KUCERA
CAZADOR
BLACKBIRD CORNER
COOKS HILL
Hipsters, hustlers and herbalists saunter side-by-side in Cooks Hill, a Greenwich Village-style slice of Newcastle sandwiched between the civic centre and the ragged shoreline leading out to Merewether. Cooks Hill’s main artery of Darby Street is a smorgasbord of small bars, curio shops, street food, casual dining, colourful cafés and creative studios, a happy hunting ground for students smitten with its secondhand book stores and hip boutiques and a growing legion of couples drawn to its bohemia and street life. Hotspots Newcastle Art Gallery, Blackbird Corner, Frankies, Honeybee, DeLucas, Glee Coffee Roasters. 25 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
CREATIVE BARSHUBS
SECTION MARKETS HEADER
NEWCASTLE MARKETS GUIDE
HAMILTON/ISLINGTON
An earthquake shattered this region in 1989, but in picking up the pieces, a bigger picture emerged. You’ll see it on Beaumont Street, an Awakabal track that became a migrant hub, mining base and site of boxing tents, gay bars and business. It’s now a vibrant multicultural east street the locals love. Hotspots Rolador, Old Regent Theatre, Auld & Grey Antiques, Islington Markets, Suspension Espresso.
ANNA KUCERA
ROLADOR
HONEYSUCKLE & THE HARBOUR
Once the crossroads for Newcastle’s coal trains, this pulsating area is now a crosshairs for culture, where fashion boutiques nestle beside beautiful homewares and upscale restaurants and hot cafés. Attracting a mix of professionals, tree-changers, young couples, retirees and families, the Junction is fueled today by artisan chefs and designer chic. Hotspots Snows Patisserie, Talulah, Silver Spoon, Cha Chaz, Junction Hotel, Harry’s Schnitzel Joint.
Newcastle’s working harbour is now its pre-eminent playground. The waterways and wharves that once churned with traffic have now evolved into chilled promenades attracting waves of diners and drinkers, workers and walkers, locals, tourists and families. On clear days there’s no better way to bottle Newcastle’s lightning than to walk, bike or jog the spectacular foreshore that links beach and big city. Hotspots Newcastle Museum, Queens Wharf Tower, Nova Cruises Harbour Cruise.
ANNA KUCERA
WEST END
WICKHAM MOTORCYCLE C0
ANNA KUCERA
THE JUNCTION
HUNTER STREET MARKETS
NEWCASTLE CITY FARMERS MARKET
Newcastle’s wave of renewal is cresting in the west. Here, the city’s industrial heartland is morphing into a gateway to art, food, bars and grungy fun. Hidden gems are everywhere in these parts, be they cafés sharing space with bike workshops, old pubs with new-wave menus, or warehouses reduxed as liquor lairs bursting with fine wine and craft beer. And the reinventions don’t stop there. An influx of young couples, edgy artists and crafty tradesfolk are moving in, burning down conventions to start pop-up shops and studios where creatives cluster. Hotspots The Edwards, the Albion, Wickham Motorcycle Co, Dark Horse Espresso, Inner City Winemakers, Tree of Knowledge.
26 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
ANNA KUCERA
SUSPENSION ESPRESSO
Browse, forage and haggle to your heart’s content for produce, fashion and design
NEWCASTLE CITY FARMERS MARKET
OLIVE TREE MARKETS
ART BAZAAR Sat Dec 6, 2014, 9am-3pm, Civic Park This annual market run by the Hunter Arts Network showcases the work of artists, designers, jewellers and craftspeople. Newcastle 2300.
NEWCASTLE CIT Y FARMERS MARKET Sun 8am-1pm, Newcastle Showground Fruit and veg, meats, cheese, fresh pasta, honey, olives, artisan bread and Lebanese, German, Spanish, French and Turkish delicacies. Brown Rd, Broadmeadow 2292.
HAMILTON CLOCKTOWER MARKETS Sat 8am-3pm, James St Plaza The Clocktower Markets run every weekend selling clothes, craft, gifts and a wide range of food. Cnr Beaumont & James Sts, Hamilton 2303.
NEWCASTLE NIGHT MARKETS Second & fourth Fri of month, 6-10pm, Hunter St Mall Wander the Mall tasting international street foods, experiencing a range of free entertainment and browsing fashion, design and homewares. Newcastle 2300.
HUNT AND GATHER MARKETS Third Sat of month, 9am-2pm, Pacific Park Aimed at younger shoppers, this market which is focused on fashion and design also sells homewares, jewellery and bric-a-brac. Newcastle 2300.
OLIVE TREE MARKETS First Sat of month, 9am-3pm, The Junction Public School Expect a high standard of men’s and women’s fashion, kids’ toys, babywear, homewares, jewellery, photography, great food stalls and quality entertainment including drumming workshops. Union St, Merewether 2291.
ISLINGTON MARKETS Last Sun of month (except Dec), 8am-2pm, Wickham Park Bargain Hunters, this is your market. This place can be packed on a busty day, so you’ll want to get down early to haggle for the good stuff. Albert St, Islington 2296. MAITLAND MARKETS First Sun of month, 8am-2pm, Maitland Showgrounds A 40-minute drive out of town, this is a centre for country crafts such as handmade wooden toys, fruit and veg, locally farmed oysters, babywear, jewellery and a shed full of hardware. Blomfield St, South Maitland 2320.
ORGANIC FOOD MARKETS Wed-Sat 8am-3pm, Hunter St Mall Run by the same people who put on nine other markets down in Sydney, these guys know fresh food. They sell anything in season on the main mall. Newcastle 2300. SALT WATER MARKETS First Sun of month, 9am-2pm, Swansea Public School Find fresh produce, handmade items and recycled retro goods at this market held at a school on Lake Macquarie. Rawson St, Swansea 2281.
27 INSIDER’S GUIDE TO NEWCASTLE 2014
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