The Line Up
Newcastle’s opening weekend of Great Southern Nights will see rising Soul/RnB star BOY SODA bring the vibes to the King Street Warehouse. The front woman of much loved Middle Kids, Hannah Joy will bring her soaring vocals to the Playhouse. Closing out the program, singer-songwriter Jack River will bring her huge array of hits to the King Street Bandroom and jazz super star Lisa Simone will perform at the Newcastle Civic Theatre.
In between gigs, here are some top tips for wining, dining and resting your head in Newcastle.
Local Eats and Treats
Newcastle’s food scene has quietly become one of the most rewarding in the state, balancing coastal ease with genuinely impressive dining. If you’re short on time, the Honeysuckle Foreshore is a solid place to start, putting you within walking distance of the waterfront, major hotels and a cluster of bars and restaurants.
In the city itself, you’ll find Spanish-style small plates at Bocados, modern Asian flavours at HUMBUG, and refined Italian at Una Volta — a local favourite for good reason. Seafood lovers should book ahead for Scottie’s, while Market St Basement nails the brief for cocktails paired with generous Italian feeds in a moody underground setting.
A little further afield, Flotilla in Wickham remains one of the region’s most celebrated dining experiences, while Antojitos delivers authentic Californian-style tacos that are well worth the detour. If you prefer to wander and discover as you go, Hamilton is packed with casual, late-night options, Cooks Hill leans into smaller, trend-driven eateries, and heading inland toward the Hunter Valley opens the door to some of the country’s best wineries and destination dining.
Where to Grab a Drink
When it comes time to raise a glass, Newcastle delivers in spades. For craft beer and harbour views, FogHorn Brewhouse is a reliable go-to, brewing on-site and buzzing most nights of the week. Cocktail lovers should seek out Coal & Cedar, a sleek underground bar known for its thoughtful drinks list and relaxed late-night vibe. If you’re after something more classic, The Great Northern Hotel remains one of the city’s best pubs for a casual drink and live music, while The Falcon in East End pairs a strong drinks list with a polished but unfussy atmosphere.
Where to Spend the Night
Newcastle’s accommodation reflects the city’s creative, coastal personality. QT Newcastle is the obvious choice if you want to stay central, with bold interiors, a rooftop bar overlooking the harbour and an on-site restaurant championing local produce — all housed within a beautifully reworked heritage building.
If falling asleep to the sound of waves is more your style, Noah’s on the Beach is about as close to the ocean as you can get, sitting directly opposite Newcastle Beach and just a short walk from the CBD. For those travelling with a group or looking to slow things down, Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows — around 45 minutes south — offers laid-back luxury with bungalows, villas and a destination restaurant that feels worlds away from the city.
