Dine at this charming French-inspired bistro in the Newcastle CBD
Combining French bistro charm with the dynamic flavours of woodfire cooking is Newcastle’s Bistro Penny.
Bistro Penny is the first restaurant by celebrated New Zealand-born chef, Joel Humphreys, whose resume boasts St John, Rockpool, Bistro Moncur, and local institution, Scotties.
Joel Humphreys & Amy Evans-Bird
Finding its home in the former Cirque Cafe spot on Bolton Street, the venue brims with character. Originally a bank and later transformed into Newcastle’s first hatted restaurant, the building now reflects its storied past while welcoming a fresh experience.
“When I first saw the space with its sandstone frontage, it already looked so European – it was perfect. The concept of Bistro Penny is something I’ve been mulling over for a while, pretty much since I first arrived in Newcastle,” Joel said.
The vision for Bistro Penny is clear; a classic French bistro rooted in simplicity and quality, but with a distinctly Australian edge. The menu centres around the live fire, with nearly every dish touched by flames.
“The woodfire is the beating heart of everything. In some way, every dish has something from the woodfire. Whether it’s the Rum Baba, which is a classic French dessert, but complete with a wood grilled banana ice cream.”
The venue’s commitment to local ingredients also shines throughout the menu, with a cast of premium suppliers like Hungerford Meats, Shane’s Seafood, and Newcastle Greens featured throughout.
“It might be cliché to say, but I mean it when I say we’re working with the best stuff possible.”
The venue’s ethos revolves around highlighting the flavours of our finest local ingredients, balanced with classic French techniques and open flames to create dishes that are somehow familiar yet surprising.
“Traditionally, that French bistro style can typically be quite heavy and decadent. Whilst I love that, it’s important to note that Australian palates need a bit of balance. So, that’s the biggest spin we’re putting on the French bistro experience.
“It won’t be so heavy and smashed down with heaps of butter. There will definitely be some aspects of that, because that’s delicious, but naturally, it’s not Australia’s palate.”
Expect large cuts of beef, whole fresh, fresh salads, and light entrees that celebrate the grill and the French bistro vibe, but without overwhelming the senses.
True to the spirit of a French bistro, the wine list offers a selection of Australian and French wines, carefully chosen to complement Joel’s fire-kissed fare.
“We have a nice variety from approachable French and local wines to a few premium choices,” Restaurant Manager, Amy Evans-Bird said.
The cocktail menu, meanwhile, leans into the classics, echoing the simplicity and refinement found throughout the venue.
As anticipated, the restaurant’s interiors and ambiance play a crucial role in setting the stage for the unique dining experience. Thoughtfully designed by Sydney-based designer, Bianca Isgro, the interior respects the building’s history while adding rich textures and warm elements.
“The flooring, brick walls, wooden balustrade, and ceiling beams are all original. The beams here are made with the same steel that was used for the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
“We’ve also uncovered the beautiful original hammered glass in the windows and continued that look throughout the venue,” Joel said.
The dining area, is complete with custom-made terrazzo-topped communal tables, oak veneer tables, and brown leather seating strike a beautiful balance between elegance and approachability.
At the front of the restaurant, sits what we think will be the hottest seats in the venue – bar seating looking directly into the kitchen and bar area and two window tables overlooking Bolton Street.
“The idea is to have that bar and kitchen space really open, interactive, and for us to be transparent with what we’re doing in there.”
Beyond the main dining area, Bistro Penny’s second level is set to become a versatile function and events space, adding another dimension to the restaurant’s offering with plans to open in the near future.
“It will have a slightly different vibe upstairs. More boujee and something Newcastle hasn’t really seen before.”
As Bistro Penny opens its doors, Newcastle will enjoy a new culinary destination that honours both the flavours of French cuisine and the charm of its historic building. With a team dedicated to crafting memorable, fire-driven meals, Bistro Penny promises to add a distinctive new flavour to our city’s vibrant dining scene.
