Located in Maryville is an exciting and somewhat hidden waterfront gem offering an enticing new dining experience for Novocastrians.

Introducing Elementa, brought to you by Newcastle-based couple and long-time foodies, Rina and Joel. Having opened in February, Elementa has cemented its position in the Newcastle dining scene with its relaxed atmosphere, unique flavours and delicately-plated dishes.

“It feels great to bring something to Newcastle that is unique that people just love. Even in the short time we’ve been open we’ve already gotten to know the familiar faces of our regular guests,” Rina shared.

The pair, having taken hold of the waterfront space back in August last year, slowly began bringing their vision for Elementa to life before officially launching the renovated space alongside a brand-new menu on Valentine’s Day.

Refined dining in a relaxed environment is at the core of Elementa’s offering. An approachable yet sophisticated menu, a dedicated wine list, a crafty cocktail menu, moody yet inviting interiors, experienced and friendly staff, and an intimate space makes for an experience to remember.  

With Rina’s extensive background working across our local hospitality scene, alongside Elementa’s line-up of talented staff is what brings the dining experience to that next level.  

In the kitchen is none other than Head Chef Jess Brooks, whom you may remember from her time across some of Newcastle's well-known dining institutions.

“Jess brings with her a wealth of experience and she’s put together a truly exceptional menu. She is leading an absolutely crack team of chefs, each of them exceptionally talented in their own right.

“We’re incredibly proud of the team we have and their skill and dedication to their craft is evidenced by the incredible flavours that are presented to our guests.”

The Maryville-based venue is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, dinner from Wednesday through to Saturday, and Sundays feature a dedicated snack menu.

“Our menu is ever-changing with regular specials, so there’s always something new and exciting to try.”

Taking inspiration from international dishes, Elementa’s menu highlights and incorporates Jess’ experience and techniques built up over her career. One point worth noting is the dinner menu’s Chef’s Choice, an option that seems to have people returning to Elementa time and time again.

“The Chef’s Choice option allows our guests to sit back, relax, and be spoiled by Chef Jess as she relieves them of the tyranny of choice. It’s a great way to dine, and you get to experience so many great dishes from the menu.”

The SMALLS menu features unique flavours including the Bonito Crudo complete with orange, fennel, shiso, and black sesame rice cracker; Chicken Karaage with spicy Tonkatsu mayo; Crushed Butterbean Dip with toasted chilli oil and warm bread; and Torched Figs with local honey, lemon labneh, and prosciutto just to name a few.

Moving into the SUBSTANTIAL dishes is where you can see Jess’ abilities really shine. From the Berkshire Pork Belly with smoked macadamia and caramelised Treviso to the Hibachi Grilled Market Fish with smoked tomato and red pepper emulsion, onion, and courgette bhaji; everything is worth tasting.

The all-day breakfast and lunch menu features some fresh signature dishes as well as a selection of Elementa’s interpretation of old favourites. 

HUNTERhunter’s top picks include the Chorizo Eggs Benedict with poached eggs, toasted sourdough, baby spinach, grilled chorizo, chipotle hollandaise, and house-made hash; and the Applewood Smoked Ocean Trout featuring toasted rye, lemon labneh, pickled fennel, apple, and baby leaf salad.

Whilst the food is a big focus for the venue, the Elementa team has spent as much time and energy in curating a wine list that is both approachable and sophisticated, with the goal of enhancing your overall dining experience.

“Our wine list showcases a collection of varietals from renowned wine regions around the country, as well as some hidden gems from lesser-known vineyards, and a stunning selection of natural wines.”

Since launching in February, the harbourside venue has become known as a bit of a local haunt for a Friday night knock-off beverage and with the venue’s happy hour running from 3pm-6pm (on both Friday and Saturday nights), alongside their dedicated bar snack menu makes for the perfect way to bring in the weekend.

“It’s a fantastic location to enjoy an afternoon wine by the water and share some delicious small bites.”

Already making noise in our local hospo scene, we’re excited about what the future of Elementa looks like. Keep an eye out for regular ticketed events in partnership with wine partners, and the occasional experimental dinner is soon to be on the cards.