Discover the best spots to dine around Lake Macquarie
Lake Macquarie locals know you don’t have to travel to the heart of Newcastle to get great food. Make the most of what’s on offer in the expansive Lake Macquarie region, starting with our guide to Lake Macquarie's best restaurants.
Argenton Eateries
Argenton Hotel
While it sits under the ‘pub’ category, Argenton Hotel is worth a mention when it comes to food in the Lake Mac region. Tastefully renovated with plenty of space for the kids, The Argy has an incredible foodie offering for both meat-eaters and vegos.
Where: 515 Lake Rd, Argenton
Belmont Eateries
Crusoe’s on the lake
Located at Lake Macquarie Yacht Club in Belmont, Crusoe’s on the Lake takes full advantage of its spectacular waterside location. The huge deck is built for long lunches or afternoon sessions so you can take in the sunset over the water.
Where: Lake Macquarie Yacht Club, Ada St
Martha
With an architecturally designed fit out, a Mediterranean-inspired menu and endless views of the lake, Martha breathes new life into Lake Macquarie’s dining scene. Exceptional food and a personalized wine and cocktail list is an added bonus.
Where: Upstairs at Belmont 16s Sailing Club | The Parade
Sesames on the Lake
Asian fusion goodness is on the menu at Sesame’s on the Lake. Find this local favourite across the road from the beautiful Belmont Baths, this cosy little restaurant is a crowd pleaser thanks to its flavourful dishes perfect for sharing.
Where: 63 Maude St
The Boat Shed Bar
Find The Boat Shed Bar at Belmont 16s Sailing Club for some of the best burgers in Lake Macquarie. The Burger Bros. menu offers a bunch of your favourite flavours with chicken wings and loaded fries added extras, washed down with a cold craft beer.
Where: The Parade
TINTA Belmont
In the iconic old Squid’s Ink spot overlooking the lake, TINTA Belmont brings new vibes to the area. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner Wednesday to Sunday, with their lawn menu available Saturday and Sundays, TINTA is waterfront dining at its best.
Where: 690 Pacific Hwy
Caves Beach Eateries
Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows
Right on the shores of Caves Beach, Caves Coastal Bar & Bungalows is the ideal destination for anyone who loves sunshine, an ocean breeze and coastal views. It’s the perfect spot for a lazy seaside lunch or to enjoy a few sundowners with your tribe.
Where: 27 Mawson Cl
Mawson Restaurant
Just a short stroll up from Caves Coastal, you’ll find Mawson. This local family-run business favours local produce and suppliers and serves up everything from delicious brekky options to all the usual lunch and dinner favourites from 12pm.
Where: 3/5 Mawson Cl
Charlestown Eateries
Babbingtons Restaurant & Bar
Reaching 40 years of service and with a stylish renovation to celebrate, Babbingtons isn’t just for hotel guests at The Apollo. Open to the public for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner, a vibrant new menu makes this restaurant worth a try.
Where: 290 Pacific Hwy
Dumpling Bar
Situated at Charlestown Square’s South Piazza, Dumpling Bar is home to a mouthwatering menu of Mandarin flavours – think a huge selection of dumplings and traditional Chinese eats. Dine in with friends or pick up for a tasty night in.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
In Forno
The newest venue for the In Forno brand, with the original space tucked away behind Beaumont Street in Hamilton, Charlestown’s The Corner dining precinct has welcomed the unrivalled Italian flavours (and extensive cocktail list) with open arms.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
Jim’s Malaysian Restaurant
The Hunter’s first Jim’s Malaysian Restaurant is situated at The Corner at Charlestown Square. Get your hands on hearty homemade laksa, roti canai and Hainanese chicken rice plus so much more. This is one Lake Macquarie restaurant worth a visit.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
Kickin’ Inn
Get your hands on the brand’s range of signature ‘Kajun’-style spice mixes that accompany fresh Aussie seafood like whole fresh prawns, mussels, and blue swimmer crabs. The famous ‘seafood bag’ delivered to your table is a must-do dining experience at Lake Macquarie!
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
Lee’s Yum Cha
Craving Yum Cha? Lee’s Yum Cha at The Corner Charlestown is the place to go. Whether it’s a delicious laksa, roast duck or a selection of some of the 60 different types of dim sums on the menu, you’ll walk away satisfied (and full!) after a visit to Lee’s.
Where: 30 Pearson St
Rascal
This iconic Newcastle born business that started with a restaurant in town, breaks the rules with its loaded menu offering. For American diner-style burgers and waffles with then lot, visit The Corner at Charlestown Square for your Lake Macquarie fix.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
The Grateful Thai
The little sister to Newcastle’s The Humble Thai restaurant, The Grateful Thai is home to a grand selection of the freshest and most authentic Thai dishes. Lunchtime specials and food to die for (try the pineapple fried rice!) make this eatery a winner.
Where: Charlestown Square | 30 Pearson St
Dudley Eateries
Royal Crown Hotel
There’s a venue that’s been drawing a crowd in this laid-back locale of Dudley since 1892 – the Royal Crown Hotel, or as everyone knows it, Dudley pub. Currently undergoing a major renovation, watch this space for its exciting re-opening.
Where: 94 Ocean St
Morisset Eateries
8 at Trinity
An absolute gem for the Morisset community, the recently launched 8 at Trinity is home to modern Australian cuisine right on the waterfront at Trinity Point. Resort-like dining at its very best, this is modern Australian cuisine at its very best.
Where: 81 Trinity Point Dr
The Yard Brewery & Smokehouse
If you’re into craft beers and love a good venue, a visit to The Yard Brewery & Smokehouse is an absolute must! Sample fresh beer from Yard Kings Brewing Co. and feast from the low ‘n’ slow BBQ menu at the onsite smokehouse.
Where: 32 Accolade Ave
Speers Point Eateries
Pippi’s at the Point
Enjoy spectacular views at this long-standing hotel overlooking Lake Macquarie. With an expansive outdoor terrace and a jam-packed pub menu with all the favourites, Pippi’s is the perfect spot to make the most of the warmer months.
Where: 199 Main Rd
Toronto Eateries
Casa Nova Italian
Live in Toronto or driving through? Drop into Casa Nova Italian on Victory Parade for delicious woodfired pizza and enticing handmade pasta. Part of a growing chain of delicious Italian eateries, grab the whole gang for a feast to remember.
Where: 24 Victory Pde
Emerson’s on the Lake
The menu at Emerson’s on the Lake reflects Emerson’s continuous commitment to quality food. An expansive menu is offered for the restaurant, and updated every three to four days, alongside a separate menu for more casual dining in the club space.
Where: 6 Arnott Ave
Toronthai
Right on the shores of Lake Macquarie at Toronto is this iconic Thai restaurant, known for its innovative flavours and contemporary flair. The heart and soul of the venue beats to the rhythm of owner Pim’s passion for home-cooked food.
Where: 4/157 Brighton Ave
Toronto Hotel
Warners Bay Eateries
Brownsugar
This absolute institution of a restaurant in Warners Bay is an absolute must for all foodies. Featuring a modern and seasonal Australian cuisine, the sleek space boasts delightful lakeside views to match the seasonal culinary creations.
Where: King St & The Esplanade
Emilio’s Italian
Emilio’s at Warners Bay has become a favourite amongst locals, offering the same warm Italian hospitality and delicious homemade dishes that its sister restaurant Emilio’s Ristorante at The Junction is also known for.
Where: 75 King St
Fukusui Japanese Teppanyaki Restaurant
Book yourself in at Fukusui Japanese Teppanyaki Restaurant in Warners Bay for a truly unique foodie experience and authentic Japanese cuisine. There’s endless fun to be had at the teppanyaki stations or enjoy a drink in the bar area.
Where: 568 The Esplanade
Sephardim
Go on a flavour journey of the Mediterranean Middle East with a dining experience at Sephardim in Warners Bay. Adding yet another choice to the eateries in Lake Macquarie, Sephardim is all about incredible share plates and full flavour.
Where: 71 King St
The Diner at Dullboy’s Social Co.
Not just a tenpin bowling venue, Dullboy’s Social Co. offers an arcade area, mini-golf, 18+ bar Barcadia, pool room, adults-only karaoke, and an American-inspired diner with the menu featuring American classics with a modern-Australian twist.
Where: 326 Hillsborough Rd
The Grand Pavilion
This could just be the best Indian restaurant in Warners Bay! At The Grand Pavilion, taste the authentic flavours and spices with Indian dishes that will transport you to another place and time. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available.
Where: 452 The Esplanade
The Swordfish Co
We first saw the family owned and operated The Swordfish Co. open in Budgewoi on the Central Coast and in 2023 the fresh take on fish and chips opened its second space in the iconic corner spot at The Esplanade in Warners Bay.
Where: 436 The Esp
Warners at the Bay
Find this ultimate destination for entertainment and relaxation on Hillsborough Road, just up from Dullboy’s Social Co. Stay at the onsite motel, savour delicious eats, enjoy live music, or explore their extensive selection at the bottle shop.
Where: 320 Hillsborough Rd
Warners Bay Hotel
Just around the corner of the ever-so-popular Warners Bay Esplanade is the refurbished Warners Bay Hotel. With a stunning new mezzanine level, enjoy live music, comforting pub food and a wide selection of on tap beers and cocktails.
Where: 5 John St
Whitebridge Eateries
PEGS
Whilst the mood at PEGS is friendly and relaxed, the menu is anything but. Mel and the team take their food seriously, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced produce, making this beautiful little suburban cafe the place to go for brekky, lunch or dinner.
Where: 157 Dudley Rd
The White Cottage 163
Find this hidden gem on the main road in Whitebridge, The White Cottage offers a unique fusion of Aussie cafe favourites alongside a selection of Thai and Asian twist menu items, so everyone will be happy at this Lake Macquarie restaurant.
Where: 163 Dudley Rd
Dining Out Lake Macquarie Style
From local restaurant favourites in Charlestown and Belmont, to all the top picks on where to eat on the other side of the lake at Speers Point and Toronto, why not book a table and enjoy the best eating spots in Lake Macquarie.
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