One of Newcastle most iconic buildings has been transformed into a beautiful restaurant and cafe space.

The Signal Box at Newcastle’s Market Street lawn was closed along with the heavy rail line in 2014, and was leased to the operators of the Port Stephens favourite, The Little Nel, Emily and Andrew Macdonald.

The Signal Box has been a part of the Newcastle Railway Station precinct since its construction in 1936. The site itself, showcases the layout and development of the nineteenth century Victorian railway precinct.

“The Newcastle Signal Box was de-commissioned on Boxing Day 2014 and it has taken five years and a lot of hard work by many, for the Signal Box to start the next chapter of its life…Newcastle Signal Box has been repurposed to offer honest food in a thoughtful space built to bring people together.”

The restaurant was designed by Jason Elsley, of Derive Architecture, who saw a fabulous opportunity to merge the historic Signal Box with a sleek, modern industrial building to create the amazing dining pavilion. The bold, vibrant brand was designed by Headjam a creative agency in Newcastle.

So, what can you expect on a visit to the Signal Box?

The restaurant offers a unique and upmarket bistro style dining experience and operates from breakfast through to dinner, serving innovative, modern Australian cuisine.

The dining pavilion is almost made entirely of steel and concrete, giving a nod to the site’s industrial past. The stunning steel spiral staircase offers visitors access to the rooftop to experience the unique views of Newcastle. 

“Partners Andrew, Dan, George and Matt saw an amazing opportunity in the Signal Box to create a unique, fun and vibrant dining experience for Newcastle.”

The food is brought to you by head Chef George Mirosevich and his talented team of chefs in kitchen. With flavours that are familiar and simple, yet clever and done well.

Whether it be breakfast in the courtyard, a late afternoon lunch or a more refined dinner by night, Signal Box will be a fun and happening place to spend time in Newcastle’s east end. Whilst there are some talented chefs on the roster who have worked in some serious high-end restaurants, the food is more approachable and relatable.

“The guys take pride in doing things properly with just about everything leaving the kitchen made in-house and from scratch. From sauces, stocks and pickles through to fresh juices, chai and sodas, the team pride themselves on doing it the hard way – something they believe is well worth the effort.”

We have a good feeling that the Signal Box is going to be a favourite amongst both locals and tourists.