TINTA, the beloved waterfront venue that has been a staple in the community since its opening in July 2022, is about to undergo a significant transformation.

Known for its elevated dining experience and commitment to showcasing local produce, TINTA is set to embrace a more casual and laid-back atmosphere, a move inspired by community feedback and the desire to create a space that feels welcoming and accessible to all.

The decision to pivot to a more relaxed approach didn’t come lightly, as owner Ben Stehr, reflects, “we’ve really ridden the wave for over two years now – it’s insane to think about.”

The venue’s two-year journey has been filled with highs and lows, from the excitement of launching the venue to navigating the challenges of two big summers, two slower winters, and the impact of interest rate hikes and the cost-of-living crisis. 

Despite these challenges, the TINTA team remains proud of their commitment to celebrating the region and community.

Come Wednesday, 11 September, TINTA will shift into a new chapter with one of the most significant (and welcoming) changes being its all-day offering.

“With waterfront views, people want to sit and enjoy the view, right? We would arrive at TINTA on a stunning morning before lunch service, no wind around, not a cloud in the sky, and think to ourselves, we should be open.”

This insight, coupled with the team’s desire to return to the original vision of offering breakfast service, led to the decision to extend TINTA’s hours. 

The new hours will see TINTA open from 7.30am for breakfast and lunch Wednesday through to Sunday, plus sunset drinks and dinner offered on Friday and Saturday evenings.

“We feel now is a good time to introduce our picnic-style offering on the lawn. It’s a casual menu for outside to be enjoyed on the deck, jetty, or lawn with some afternoon and sunset entertainment set for the warmer months.”

This picnic-style offering has been crafted by Head Chef Jakeal Hector and comes complete with a killer breakfast menu alongside family-friendly and affordable options like fish and chips, fish tacos, burgers, and bowls.

The new offering is designed to align with our iconic Aussie lifestyle where you can relax and unwind; whether it’s over a leisurely breakfast by the lake or an afternoon of cocktails in the sun.

“We envisage groups of friends chilling on a picnic blanket with bottles of wine, kids running around until dark under mum and dad’s watchful eye, and some live jazz or funky entertainment to enjoy watching those epic spring and summer sunsets.”

Other changes that will also come into effect include the venue’s dinner service, which will now only be available on Friday and Saturday evenings. Guests can expect more complete meals on the menu, rather than the shared dishes that TINTA has become known for.

Additionally, a bar snacks menu will be available from 12pm until close, along with TINTA’s High Tide happy hour featuring $12 cocktails, $12 spritzes, and $8 pints of beer.

The shift to a more casual offering reflects TINTA’s commitment to evolving with the needs and desires of its local community. As for the future, the focus is on refining this new approach and ensuring that it resonates with visitors. 

While there are plans to offer more affordable weddings and events, the priority for now is making TINTA known for its all-day casual dining experience.

“We’re pretty excited to announce that the tide is changing at TINTA.”

This new approach comes just in time as the weather starts warming up. TINTA’s new chapter is set to offer a relaxed and welcoming environment where everyone can enjoy Lake Macquarie from sunrise to sunset. Whether it’s a morning coffee with a view, lunch on the lawn, or cocktails on the deck, TINTA is ready to welcome guests to experience their new chapter.