An Insider’s Guide on Where to Eat in Newcastle

This is the insider’s guide to dining out in Newcastle, NSW.

“It’s an exciting time to have a restaurant in Newcastle,” says Stephanie Wells, who opened Humbug with her partner, chef Michael Portley (left), in 2022. Located on Hunter Street in the CBD, the welcoming inside-outside eatery embodies the couple’s warm, relaxed approach. Sydney-born Portley’s vibrant food takes cues from his time at restaurants such as the fire-fuelled Porteño in Surry Hills but is rooted in the classics, which might mean local vegetables with miso bagna càuda (Italian anchovy and garlic dipping sauce) or bucatini with Coffs Harbour prawn and chilli prawn butter. Here, Wells reveals her favourite places around town.

Stephanie Wells and Michael Portley of Humbug Newcastle

Equium Social for an Asian-inspired breakfast

“In Mayfield East, this modern Australian café does everything to an exceptional standard, including housemade ferments, pickles and bread. My choice is either the brown rice congee or a turmeric crêpe with herby cucumber salad, coconut sambal, crisp shallot, peanuts and a fried egg. The coffee is brilliant, too.”

Arno Deli for the porchetta panini

“This hole-in-the-wall place has great charcuterie and cheese but also out-of-this-world paninis. I love the number two – porchetta and eggplant with aïoli on schiacciata bread – with added Calabrian chilli. In the morning, you can get excellent coffee but I go for a late lunch and a cheeky glass or two from the Italian-focused wine list.”

Vera for wine and charcuterie

“I like to visit this boutique spot in Hamilton to chat with the owners, wine experts Florence Diffey and Josh Di Stefano. Known for their selection of local, cult and rare wines, they will happily walk you through South African chenin blanc or a delicious Etna rosso. At the front is a small bar that can seat 12 people, where they serve simple charcuterie and cheese boards; the bottleshop is at the back.”

Limoo for slow-cooked lamb

“The Iranian owners of this neighbourhood restaurant in Hamilton have created a homely space with traditional artworks, Persian rugs and colourful plates decorating the walls (above). I order the mahiche – slow-cooked lamb shanks with Persian spices, saffron and tomato – and the khoresht aloo, saffron chicken with apricot and barberries. The Persian love cake is also fantastic.”

The Underground for live music and a Negroni

“Underneath The Grand hotel is an atmospheric, speakeasy-style bar. It’s all about community, passion and energy – and jazz. Thursday nights can turn into a bit of a jam session so make sure you’re there before the show kicks off to grab a seat. I always have a Negroni and you can get high-quality pub food from the upstairs menu.”

Flotilla for a fancy dinner

“This place (hero image)is the big-ticket night out in Newcastle. They serve a seasonal set menu with coastal and Mediterranean inflections. The open kitchen is impressive, with open-fire cooking at its heart – I love to sit at the bar in front of the chefs. Make sure to grab a cocktail – the Si Chef is a must. The wine list is excellent, too – go big with a burgundy.”