Much-loved Lovedale restaurant Emerson's Restaurant has sadly announced its closure via Instagram on Thursday January 4, 2024. Read the statement from the restaurant's Instagram below:

"Not an easy decision, however, after working for over 20 years in the Hunter Valley and 13 1/2 as Chef/Owner of Emerson's Restaurant, I believe it is the right time to close the doors. First and foremost, I would like to say a massive thank you to past and present staff. Without your amazing hard work and dedication my dream would not have been possible.

I would also like to thank Peter O'Meara (previous owner of Adina Vineyard) who originally approached me about coming to Adina. Jeff and Aileen (current owners), you have been so supportive throughout the years and the best landlords anyone could ask for.
To our wonderful customers; those who dined here from the first day through to those who enjoyed the experience more recently, thank you.

To all our suppliers, you have continually provided us with the best service and ingredients. A special thank you to the Hunter Valley Wine Country community for making Emerson's Restaurant part of this fabulous destination!

Our last trading day will be Sunday, 14th January - Breakfast and Lunch so please come and enjoy one last memorable meal.

- Emerson Rodriguez"

Located on the ever-so-popular Lovedale Road in the Hunter Valley, situated amongst Adina Vineyard, sits what we believe to be the Hunter Valley’s most underrated restaurant, Emerson’s.

Brought to us by Chef Emerson Rodriguez, Emerson’s offers diners a truly unique and amazing, yet relaxed dining experience that will keep you returning time and time again.

Originally from the Philippines, Chef Emerson Rodriguez has been cooking for over 20+ years and has no interest in slowing down with his kitchen adventures. Having an extensive career in the culinary world running fine-dining restaurants, catering concerts, and creating intimate dining experiences for private events.

Before originally launching Emerson’s Restaurant back in 2009, Emerson built a strong reputation in the Hunter region with his unique take on foodie flavours. Re-launching Emerson’s Restaurant back in 2019, the old crowd favourite continues its relaxed dining environment but with much more bold new flavours.

Featuring a flavoursome a-la-carte menu and being situated amongst a relaxed and welcoming setting, Emerson’s focusses on flavoursome dishes all of which have been lovingly curated by Chef Emerson himself.

Located inside the building with that eye-catching yellow façade, Adina Vineyard, Emerson’s Restaurant is the kind of venue you’re likely to visit often and recommend to everyone visiting the Hunter Valley.

Emerson’s intuition for guests' experiences means he knows exactly how to deliver a fresh, flavoursome, and beautifully plated dining experience. Partnering fresh local produce with his ability to create simple, effective, and downright delicious meals.

Naturally, a good deal of Emerson’s work time is spent meeting with suppliers to source the freshest produce around. Working alongside a number of local producers, including getting seafood from the local seafood legends at Shane’s Seafood and dairy products from Binnorie Dairy.

Looking over the menu featuring a range of share plates and individual meals, each and every dish is elegant and fresh. The spiced and roasted cauliflower side topped with Binnorie feta and toasted seeds is out of this world good, and hopefully never coming off of the menu.

Emerson's Restaurant also has a whole range of delicious breakfast items, mains, and snacks that are sure to tickle your fancy.

Unsurprisingly, Emerson is very involved in every aspect of the restaurant. It’s not uncommon for you to find him taking phone bookings and often making pottery plates, cups, and other décor for use at the restaurant – something Emerson clearly gets a kick out of.

“Pottery is my downtime. I just thought, why not do something that I can actually use at the restaurant.  Seeing a dish that I created, that I put on my own plate. You just get so much satisfaction out of that.”