Our Top 5 Hunter Valley Restaurants
A great Hunter Valley wine tour isn't just about what's in your glass. It's also about where you stop for lunch, the food you share, the views you take in and those long, relaxed conversations that somehow make the afternoon disappear.
With so many places to eat across the Hunter Valley, choosing where to book can be half the challenge.
So, if you're planning a day in wine country, here are five Hunter Valley restaurants we'd recommend adding to your plans.
And the best part? When you book a private tour with Designated Driver Hunter Valley, you don't have to worry about who's driving between the cellar doors and lunch.
Bistro Molines
If you're looking for a dining experience with a little history behind it, Bistro Molines is one to put on the list.
Located at Tallavera Grove in Mount View, Bistro Molines has a long history in Hunter Valley dining. Robert and Sally Molines first established a restaurant in the Hunter Valley in 1973, before eventually opening Bistro Molines at Tallavera Grove in 2008.
Today, the restaurant is known for its sophisticated yet rustic French Provincial cuisine, changing with seasonal and local availability. There are also beautiful views across the Hunter Valley vineyards to enjoy while you dine.
Reservations are essential, and the restaurant currently offers lunch Thursday to Monday, with Saturday dinner also available.
Our tip: If you're planning a special occasion during your Hunter Valley visit, this is one worth considering.
The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines
Wine and food are a pretty natural combination in the Hunter Valley, and The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines takes that pairing seriously.
Executive Chef Sam Alexander has created a menu focused on local and seasonal produce, with the food designed to work alongside the wine. Guests can choose from the à la carte menu or leave the decisions to the team with the 'Feed Me' menu.
The restaurant is located at Brokenwood Wines in Pokolbin, making it an easy option to combine with a day of wine tasting.
And if you're already visiting Brokenwood, there's also the Terrace Wine Bar, which serves Brokenwood wines alongside a selection of small plates.
Our tip: This is a great choice if you want your lunch to feel like part of the wine experience rather than simply a break between tastings.
Pescara
For something with an Italian influence, put Pescara on your Hunter Valley dining list.
Located at Hermitage Lodge in Pokolbin, Pescara describes itself as a neighbourhood Italian restaurant, with Head Chef Kelvin Foster creating a warm, welcoming and seasonal menu inspired by the town of Pescara and local Hunter produce.
The restaurant overlooks the picturesque vines of the Hermitage Lodge, giving you another chance to enjoy those classic Hunter Valley views while you eat.
Pescara also has a bar where you can settle in for a cocktail and small plates before dinner.
Our tip: If Italian food, local produce and a relaxed atmosphere sound like your kind of lunch, Pescara is worth adding to the itinerary.
Iron Gate Kitchen
If Mediterranean-style dining and dishes designed for sharing are more your thing, Iron Gate Kitchen offers something a little different.
Located at Iron Gate Estate in Pokolbin, the restaurant focuses on fresh seasonal produce and bold Iberian flavours, with a relaxed Mediterranean approach built around wood, smoke, fire and the grill.
The current menu is designed around an all-day dining experience from Friday to Tuesday, with Friday evening dinner and happy hour also available.
And because Iron Gate Kitchen sits within Iron Gate Estate, you can combine lunch with a wine tasting at the cellar door — which is open daily.
Our tip: This is one for the group who likes to order a few things for the table and share.
Hunters Quarter
For a relaxed but elegant dining experience, Hunters Quarter is another Hunter Valley favourite to consider.
Located at Pooles Rock Vineyard in Pokolbin, Hunters Quarter combines a contemporary dining experience with a vineyard setting and welcoming service. There is also a private terrace overlooking the vineyards — a pretty good place to spend a few hours with good food and good company.
Chef Brian Duncan's menu focuses on fresh, local and seasonal produce, with options including à la carte and degustation dining, as well as vegan and children's menus.
Our tip: If you're celebrating something or simply want to slow down and enjoy a longer lunch, HQ is worth a look.
Make lunch part of the Hunter Valley experience
The Hunter Valley is about more than ticking wineries off a list. It's about taking your time, discovering somewhere new, enjoying good food and, of course, having another glass of wine without someone having to draw the short straw as designated driver.
That's where we come in.
With a private Hunter Valley wine tour from Designated Driver, you can build your day around the places you actually want to visit — including your choice of restaurant.
You enjoy the wine, the food and the scenery.
We'll take care of the driving.
Ready to plan your Hunter Valley day?
FAQs
What are some of the best restaurants in the Hunter Valley?
Some highly recommended Hunter Valley dining options include Bistro Molines, The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines, Pescara, Iron Gate Kitchen and Hunters Quarter. Each offers a different style of dining, from French Provincial and Italian-inspired food to Mediterranean and contemporary cuisine.
Where should I eat lunch during a Hunter Valley wine tour?
It depends on the type of experience you're looking for. The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood is a natural choice for combining wine and seasonal food, while Iron Gate Kitchen offers Mediterranean-style dishes designed for sharing. Bistro Molines is another option for a more traditional, special-occasion dining experience.
What are the best restaurants in Pokolbin?
Pokolbin is home to several excellent dining options, including The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines, Pescara, Iron Gate Kitchen and Hunters Quarter.
Can I include lunch at a restaurant on a Hunter Valley wine tour?
Yes. With a private tour, your itinerary can be planned around the wineries and restaurants you'd like to visit. It's a good idea to make restaurant reservations in advance, particularly for popular venues.
Do I need a designated driver for a Hunter Valley wine tour?
If you're planning to taste wine throughout the day, having a professional designated driver means everyone in your group can enjoy the experience without having to nominate someone to miss out. A private designated driver also means you don't have to worry about navigating between wineries and restaurants.
