Whether you’re seeking new hotspots, acclaimed restaurants, or picturesque dining, Shoalhaven has it all. Kristy Mayhew, Tourism & Economic Development Manager (Acting), Shoalhaven City Council says “Shoalhaven is a food-lovers delight, with passionate chefs who have made the sea or tree change, an abundance of local produce and seafood, and fantastic destination dining whether it be with ocean view or countryside. Winter is a wonderful time to book a foodie getaway. You can treat your palette while also enjoying brisk hikes where the bush meets the beach, whale watching, crackling fires and great locally-made wine. Find out more at shoalhaven.com/food.
New Eateries and Offerings in the Shoalhaven
Nowra’s food scene is vibrant and ever-evolving, with plenty of exciting new additions. One such addition is Punch the Ploughman, a recent pop-up next to Hyper Hyper Coffee, offering a cosy vibe with rustic seating, fire pits, and live music—perfect for enjoying toasties and treats. Blak Cede Cafe, run by the women of local First Nations social enterprise Waminda, brings unique dishes like crocodile pies and other goodies with a native food source twist. Another delightful stop is Espresso Boy Donuts, just off the highway, known for its colourful and creative donuts. For a coastal dining experience, Beach Safari Currarong, led by Maeve O'Meara of SBS Food Safari fame, offers delicious food in the charming town of Currarong. Chef Thiago of Ponte Dining has just taken over The Growers eatery, a few minutes south of the Nowra CBD, with country views and indoor outdoor contemporary drinks and dining.Nestled in the scenic beauty of Kangaroo Valley, The Woolshed is a brand new restaurant offering an authentic taste of Italy in the stunning surrounds of Kangaroo Valley Golf Course. A restored former woolshed, the restaurant offers sweeping views, rustic décor and a cosy atmosphere. Brad from Terra & Mare also offers authentic Italian in “KV'' at his delicious Pizzeria and Italian Bakery where an array of sourdough bases and amazing handmade desserts wow the locals. Visit Wildes Dining and enjoy contemporary Australian cuisine as a guest in their boutique hotel with stunning Mediterranean courtyard or as a visitor for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
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Altar Winebar Milton |
The townships of Milton and Mollymook pair historic charm with new culinary hotspots. Delly’s Really Good Sandwiches, the new venture of Alex and Joe Delly of Small Town Food & Wine fame, serves sandwiches inspired by Katz’s Delicatessen in New York City. Using high-quality ingredients like cold cuts from LP’s in Sydney and house-made pickles, their menu includes standout items like hot roast beef and chicken and tarragon sandwiches.
Additionally, Baar Baar offers a contemporary twist to traditional Indian cuisine with both innovative and classic dishes. Prickly Pear focuses on Mediterranean seafood, using locally farmed and caught seasonal ingredients to create delightful dishes in a cosy, family-owned setting.
Shoalhaven’s Most Loved and Well-Reviewed Culinary Gems
Berry boasts several well-reviewed establishments that have earned the love of locals, visitors, and critics alike. SOUTH on Albany stands out with its hatted status and local produce-focused menu, crafted by renowned chef John Evans. The Famous Donut Van continues to draw crowds with its cinnamon and Nutella-filled donuts. For those seeking an elegant yet relaxed dining experience, Queen St Eatery offers a neighbourhood wine bar come chic French bistro atmosphere.Towards the coast, several dining spots have garnered excellent reviews and are beloved by the community. Bangalay Dining, a hatted restaurant on Seven Mile Beach, is celebrated for its imaginative cuisine infused with Indigenous flavours by chef Simon Evans. Equally adored is Pelican Rocks Café in Greenwell Point, renowned for its award-winning seafood, including the title of best fish and chips in NSW for many years in a row.
Jervis Bay is home to well-reviewed dining venues that pair great food with beautiful surroundings. WildGinger, an Asian fusion restaurant, is a favourite for its vibrant flavours and lively cocktail hour, making it popular among both locals and tourists.
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Blak Cede Cafe Nowra |
Culinary Delights with Stunning Views in the Shoalhaven
In Ulladulla, exceptional dining experiences come with breathtaking views. The brand new Native Harbourview, offers relaxed elevated healthy dishes with a picturesque harbour backdrop.Jervis Bay’s natural beauty is perfectly complemented by its dining options with incredible views. The Gunyah, at Paperbark Camp, a treetop restaurant in the heart of Jervis Bay’s coastal forest, serves breakfast, lunch, afternoon cocktails, and dinner, all emphasising locally sourced and seasonal produce.
Continue further down the coast to Milton and you’ll find Altar Bar, with its unique garden spaces and live music, is a hidden gem in Milton’s countryside, offering both indoor and outdoor seating. Cupitt’s Estate provides a picturesque setting with boutique wine and beer, and a farm-to-table dining philosophy, allowing guests to savour their meals while overlooking lush vineyards and rolling hills. Lagom Bakery, located on the edge of Burrill Lake, specialises in artisanal sourdough and handcrafted viennoiseries, offering a serene setting to enjoy delightful baked goods with tranquil lake views.
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