Eddie's is breathing new life into one of Newcastle's most iconic heritage landmarks

Few places in Newcastle command a view quite like Shepherds Hill Cottage.

Perched above King Edward Park at the midway point of the iconic Bathers Way coastal walk, the heritage-listed cottage has watched over Newcastle's coastline for more than 130 years. 

Once a military command post protecting the city's bustling coal port, and later home to Marine Rescue NSW, the building has long been woven into Newcastle's story. 

After years of careful restoration, the landmark has reopened, ready for its next chapter.

Opening on Wednesday, July 22, Eddie's has transformed the historic cottage into a cafe overlooking one of the city's most spectacular stretches of coastline.

The venue is the newest addition to local hospitality group Noke, joining Arthur's Pantry, Ronnie's Pokolbin, and Mr O Wholefoods, but unlike its sister venues, this project came with an extraordinary sense of responsibility.

When City of Newcastle invited operators to tender for the heritage-listed building, Blake Gontier and Noah Leonard knew they wanted to be part of it.

"We submitted a business plan, of what we thought the space would look like. We met with council a few times and then they called us and said, 'Congratulations, you've got it.'"

Noah Leonard and Blake Gontier

That phone call marked the beginning of what would become an almost two-year journey.

"It was October 2024 when we first approached More Atelier to help us come up with a concept, so it's nearly been two years since we started the process, but it'll be worthwhile."

For the Newcastle-born duo, the appeal wasn't simply opening another cafe.

"It was an opportunity to do something in Newcastle," Blake said.

"And in a really spectacular location. It's incredible. No other cafe would have views like this. It was a good challenge."

Bringing a historic landmark back to life 

Originally constructed in the 1890s as part of Newcastle's coastal defence system, Shepherds Hill Cottage later became an important World War II command post. Following severe storm damage in 2015, City of Newcastle invested more than $1 million restoring the heritage-listed building and adapting it for public use, while preserving its original character.

By the time Blake and Noah stepped inside, much of the restoration had already been completed.

"They'd already done a huge renovation on the building," Blake said.

"Whilst we couldn’t make any alterations to the building, it’s been more about adding, and working with what the council gave us – their colour palette and the way they've returned the house to its original condition."

Working alongside Newcastle interior design studio More Atelier, the team focused on complementing the cottage rather than reinventing it.

Local artists contributed artworks throughout the space, antique pieces were sourced to add warmth and character, and a custom Aboriginal artwork by a local artist sits within one of the dining rooms, connecting the venue to the region's cultural history.

Even the cafe's name acknowledges the site's story.

"It's located in King Edward Park, so Eddie's just made sense. It suits our branding as well with all of our other venues."

Designed around European cafe culture 

While the setting is unmistakably Newcastle, the atmosphere inside Eddie's draws heavily from relaxed European cafe culture.

For Blake, the inspiration came naturally once the team spent time inside the building.

"It was just the feel of the venue," he said.

That influence carries through both the interiors and the menu.

"Our menu is more European inspired but still includes Australian cafe classics, with a little bit of fusion as well," Blake said.

Open daily from 6am, Eddie’s is ideal for a takeaway coffee after a walk along Bathers Way or, if you have more time, a leisurely brunch and cocktails overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The venue seats up to 100 guests across its indoor and outdoor spaces, with many tables taking full advantage of the spectacular coastal outlook.

Honest food, good coffee, and a few surprises

Asked what diners should order first, Blake doesn't hesitate.

"The Steak Frites is my favourite."

Other highlights include folded eggs with parmesan and chilli oil, cured salmon Eggs Benedict, tiramisu French toast, and truffled white wine mushrooms with poached eggs and baguette crisps.

"It's honestly so delicious," Blake said.

Coffee remains central to the experience, complemented by specialty drinks including the Mont Blanc and Coconut Cloud, alongside matcha, smoothies and cold brews.

The venue is also fully licensed, offering Hunter Valley wines and an intriguing cocktail list that includes the Petit Bisou – a lavender and rosemary-infused mimosa.

"It's like a little kiss of lavender and rosemary," Blake describes.

While Eddie's will initially trade through breakfast and lunch, evening service is already part of the longer-term vision.

"When it comes to spring and summer we'll venture into nights," Blake said.

"We're thinking tapas-style food, cocktails and sunsets."

Returning the cottage to the community 

For Blake and Noah, Eddie's is about far more than opening another venue.

"Growing up in Newcastle, this project feels personal," Noah said.

"We've spent a lot of time in and around this area, so being able to contribute something back to the community here means a lot to us."

"The heritage of Shepherds Hill Cottage has played an important role in shaping both the design of the space and the overall offering, and we wanted to create something that respects its history while making it part of everyday life again."

Whether you're grabbing a coffee before a coastal walk, or settling in for a long brunch overlooking the Pacific, Eddie's brings new purpose to one of Newcastle's most treasured landmarks – ensuring a building that has watched over the city for generations remains part of everyday life for many more to come.

Photo credit: Gabby Simpson

Editor’s note: This article was produced independently by the HUNTERhunter editorial team and is not paid or sponsored content.