Making their dreams of running a restaurant into a reality, local couple Tony Harrison and Melisah May have opened Harrisons, a new food and wine venue on Tudor St, bringing a taste of the Hunter Valley to Newcastle.

The cosy neighbourhood restaurant brings everything the Hunter Valley has to offer to Newcastle, from the al a carte dining lunch menus to carefully selected wines, the new spot provides Novocastrians the full Hunter Valley experience without the hour drive. 

Searching for their perfect location for the last four years, the couple wanted to find a space that let them bring to life an atmosphere that felt like their own living space. Alongside a dedicated team of trades, the entire building has been transformed, with fresh light fixtures and an entirely new bar and function space added.

“We learned a lot as we went. Melisah and I did all the design as we wanted it to be authentic and a true representation of what it was like to be in ‘our’ dining room,” Tony shared.

With carefully curated decor, and coordinated floral dinnerware, the homely touches showcase the care put into every decision. Proudly displaying artworks created by Melisah throughout the venue, the couple plan to continue to add more to the walls as time goes on.

Showcasing a carefully planned out menu, the restaurant has something to offer for anyone wanting to experience something new. Focusing on sourcing their wines and produce locally, their menu features goods from businesses Tony has worked with over the years. 

“We are excited to show Novocastrians the diversity of the Hunter Valley as a region, and are working closely with a number of small winemakers.”

Lunch specials such as steak frites of Jacks Creek wagyu tri-tip rump, to confit duck with lentils du puy, your mouth will be watering just reading their menu. And if that’s too hard to pick from, Harrison’s offers a varied tasting menu for diners too. 

Options such as paella of saffron, chicken, octopus, and chorizo, or Tuscan white bean dip with Uprising sourdough are included, rounded out by a knowledgable team to help you pair the perfect wine to go with your meal. 

Harrison’s opened their doors in late October and offers two seating options, opening for dinner from 6pm-late on Wednesday through Saturday, and lunch from 12pm-3pm Friday and Saturday. Settling into their new home on Tudor St, Harrisons is the spot to watch for anyone looking to indulge in the delights of the Hunter.