A hidden gem in Charlestown, serving up the region on a plate
Located within the newly refreshed Mercure Charlestown, Madison Kitchen & Bar brings a distinctive local dining experience to the hotel, reimagining hotel dining as something far more memorable.
Originally opening in 1981, the hotel has long been part of Charlestown’s landscape, and since taking the reins in 2015, managing owners Amanda and Grant Vickery, now working alongside the Accor hotel group, have reimagined the hotel into a warm, inviting and thoughtfully renewed space.
From the moment you arrive, that shift is immediately clear. Light moves easily through the space, and there’s a sense of openness that feels relaxed rather than formal, a clear departure from the standard hotel experience.
Just a 15-minute drive from the heart of Newcastle, Madison Kitchen & Bar brings that same sensibility to its dining offering – a one-of-a-kind experience of ‘Newcastle on a plate’, paired with sweeping views from its hilltop setting.
The renewed space
That sense of place is most evident in the material details. A warm palette of white walls, timber flooring and soft pastel tones sets a calm foundation, layered with modern lighting and marble finishes that add a subtle edge of refinement. Large-scale artworks referencing Newcastle’s surrounding landscapes ground the space, tying it back to its environment.
Within Madison Kitchen, the atmosphere softens further. Rounded forms, lighter finishes and an open layout create an easy flow between spaces, while the dining room extends onto a deck overlooking the turquoise pool.
A tucked-away breakfast nook and outdoor deck overlooking the pool allow the space to shift naturally throughout the day – from quiet mornings through to long lunch functions and relaxed evening dining.
The property’s transformation reflects a broader vision for the venue. What was once described as having “good bones but no soul” has been carefully reworked, evolving into a destination suited to poolside dining, hotel stays, weddings, conferences and events.
Meet the chef behind the menu
Newly appointed executive Chef Rahoul Kirtickar brings a wealth of international culinary experience to the table, having honed his craft in India, with notable positions at Weston, Radisson, and MSC Cruises, alongside roles in culinary based consulting focussed on menu design and transformation.
Originally from Mumbai, Rahoul relocated to Australia in 2023, later starting his own venture Calamari Kitchen & Bar before bringing his expertise to Madison Kitchen & Bar. His vision is clear: to showcase hyper-local produce while weaving multicultural influences through each dish.
Newcastle on a plate
At Madison Kitchen & Bar, the focus is on delivering a refined yet welcoming dining experience. Guests are treated to a thoughtfully crafted menu that evolves with the seasons, spotlighting the best of Hunter Valley and Lake Macquarie produce.
While the à la carte menu caters to a wide range of tastes – think familiar favourites like fish and chips, smokey butter chicken, pasta, and pizza – the real standout is the three-course degustation, the Chef’s Dinner Menu ($85pp).
Designed as a more refined, curated experience, this is where the kitchen really leans in. Dishes feel more elevated and considered, with highlights including pork belly, duck Maryland and a white chocolate crème brûlée to finish.
It’s also where Rahoul’s vision of “Newcastle on a plate” comes to life, most notably through the Charcoal-Grilled Eye Fillet. A layered potato gratin nods to the city’s architectural forms, while seasonal greens reflect the surrounding bushland, resulting in a dish that’s as thoughtful visually as it is in flavour.
Don’t miss
The hotel’s premium bar space, complements Madison Kitchen with a relaxed setting for pre-dinner drinks or a casual nightcap, offering a considered selection of Hunter Valley wines from producers like Tyrrell’s and De Bortoli, alongside classic cocktails, locally brewed beers from Newcastle favourites, and a mix of premium and craft spirits.
Madison Kitchen & Bar also serves breakfast for both hotel guests and visitors ($34pp), offering a generous spread of hot and cold favourites alongside a selection of thoughtful extras.
The takeaway
For anyone visiting Newcastle or Lake Macquarie, dining at Madison Kitchen & Bar at Mercure Charlestown is a must. With its exceptional menu, locally inspired dishes, and inviting atmosphere, Madison Kitchen & Bar offers a dining experience that’s as much about the place as it is the food.
Whether you're a local resident or a hotel guest, Madison Kitchen & Bar is the perfect spot to indulge in the flavours of the region, with every bite telling a story of local produce and culinary passion.
To book your seat at Madison Kitchen & Bar, see the full menu or find out more visit Mercure Charlestown.
This article was produced by HUNTERhunter in partnership with Lake Macquarie Council. Thank you for supporting the partners who make HUNTERhunter possible.
