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Open fire

Lunch at Tedesca Osteria begins with an opening bracket of snacks.
Good Food hatGood Food hat17/20

‘This is how it should be’: Join the waitlist for a shot at Victoria’s perfect long lunch

I had my doubts when hearing gushing accounts from other diners, but I fell into the embrace of two-hatted Tedesca Osteria’s relaxed hospitality, writes Besha Rodell.

  • Besha Rodell
McCarrs.
14.5/20

‘Beaut little hub’: This rebadged suburban spot crackles with community spirit

McCarrs on Mona Vale Road is an excellent place to sit by the fire and share pizza slices topped with pepperoni, honey and chilli.

  • Callan Boys

This retro servo draws crowds with live music, fire pits and deep-fried lasagne sangas

Crackerjack snacks including pork cordon bleu buns and fried fish sandwiches are among the fleeting specials at this laid-back community spot.

  • Lenny Ann Low
Tartine gives toast the bistro treatment.

Tartine

Handsome corner spot draws a following for its namesake open sandwich.

The firelit dining at Tanswell’s Hotel, Beechworth.

Tanswell’s Hotel

Grand heritage hotel with fresh ideas and broad appeal.

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Half-chicken with French onion soup toast.
14.5/20

Heritage farmhouse meets natural wine at this new bread fanciers’ hang-out

The All Purpose Bakery team brings “posh RSL” vibes and a no-bookings policy to a refurbished sandstone cottage on Oxford Street, serving rissoles, steak, oysters Kilpatrick and all things bread.

  • Callan Boys
Homely and warming at Earth Walker & Co.

Cosy up with flame-licked food at this candlelit cafe and restaurant

Lush and dramatic dishes made from seasonal produce over an open fire are at the heart of Coledale’s cosy coastal cafe-restaurant Earth Walker & Co.

  • Lenny Ann Low
The dining room is a bona fide looker, all brooding leather, original terrazzo sandstone and cedar.
Good Food hat15/20

Why this charming bistro is Newcastle’s new hatted dining destination

The handsome, historic site on Bolton Street finally wins back a chefs’ hat with the arrival Bistro Penny.

  • Callan Boys
The historic Victoria Hotel was built in 1868.

The Victoria

A beautifully renovated gem in Rutherglen.

  • Richard Cornish

Seven Creeks Hotel

A Federation-era pub with a landscaped beer garden.

  • Richard Cornish