Hunter Valley Best Restaurants And Wineries

Join me as we get deeper into the delightful experience of discovering the Hunter Valley, focusing on the best restaurants and wineries, and offering practical tips to make the most of your visit.

Mount Broke Wines & Restaurant

Location: 130 Adams Peak Rd, Broke

Restaurant Open: On Friday nights, they got a Pizza and Bar starting at 5:30 pm. On Saturday and Sunday, swing by for lunch from midday and dig into the Seasonal Bistro Menu crafted by French Chef Stanislas Riemain and sous-chef Vincent Gallais. Plus, you can pair your meal with a wine tasting.

Cellar Door Open: 10.00 am to 5.00 pm Saturday and Sunday.

Mount Broke Wines is a gem tucked away in the Broke Fordwich region, just a short drive from Pokolbin. The restaurant, housed in a converted milking shed, offers a warm and rustic atmosphere. The seasonal bistro menu crafted by French Chef Julie Chevallier changes weekly, featuring dishes like tempura prawns, octopus salad, and local Angus beef prime rib steak cooked on the bone.

Don’t forget to leave room for dessert—lime meringue tart is a crowd-pleaser. Pair your meal with a glass of their signature estate Shiraz or explore their European beer list for a refreshing alternative. The experience of enjoying a leisurely lunch with stunning views is truly unbeatable.

Margan Wines & Restaurant

Photo credit: Margan Wines & Restaurant

Location: 1238 Milbrodale Rd, Broke

Restaurant Open: Monday to Sunday from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm
Cellar Door Open: Daily from 10am

If you’re venturing into the quieter side of the Hunter Valley, Margan Restaurant is an absolute must. Situated in Broke, this family-owned estate is not only known for its fantastic wines but also for its true farm-to-table philosophy. The restaurant grows much of its produce on-site, and their commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of the business.

Margan is the type of restaurant where you feel deeply connected to the food you’re eating. Chef Joanna Margan and her team utilize ingredients from their one-acre kitchen garden, free-range chickens, and even honey from their beehives. What you get on your plate is truly local, fresh, and delicious.

The restaurant features dishes created from produce grown on their farm, including everything from vegetables to free-range chicken and lamb. I recommend trying their crab bisque or the barbecued Binnie Wagyu beef—both are divine.

The menu is a celebration of what’s in season, and the flavors are bold yet balanced. During my visit, the standouts were the house-made ricotta with freshly picked herbs and a beautifully plated dish of lamb from their own farm. Every course is a perfect reflection of the Hunter Valley’s abundance.

Practical Tip: Be sure to take the garden tour before your meal. It gives you a deeper understanding of how the restaurant operates and the journey your food takes from the field to your plate. It’s a unique experience that enhances your appreciation of the meal.

Margan’s wines are as impressive as their food, with a strong focus on Semillon and Shiraz, two of the Hunter’s flagship varieties. I was particularly drawn to their Aged Semillon, which has a rich, complex flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the earthy dishes from the restaurant.

If you’re a wine enthusiast looking to learn more about Margan’s winemaking process, consider booking their Soil-to-Cellar experience. It includes a guided tour of the vineyard and winery, plus a private tasting and lunch.

Restaurant Botanica – Spicers Vineyards Estate

Location: 555 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin

Restaurant Open: Wednesday – Sunday
Cellar Door Open: Daily

This is where luxury meets relaxation. Set among sprawling vineyards and majestic gum trees, Restaurant Botanica at Spicers Vineyards Estate is a quintessential Hunter Valley experience. It’s perfect for those who want a combination of fine dining and casual elegance. One of the standout features for me is their commitment to sustainability, with much of the produce used in the kitchen sourced directly from their garden.

The dining room offers uninterrupted views of the vineyards, with the Brokenback Mountain Range in the distance—a view you could stare at for hours. And let’s not forget the wine. Their focus is on Hunter Valley drops, especially Shiraz and Semillon, which perfectly complement their seasonal Modern Australian menu. If you’re there, don’t miss the sourdough bread (imported San Francisco starter!), paired with their famous wood-smoked quail.

Practical tip: Spicers Vineyards Estate offers bikes for guests, so you can easily hop from one winery to the next. Stay the night in one of their luxury suites if you don’t want to drive after indulging in all that amazing wine!

Muse Restaurant and Hungerford Hill Winery

Photo credit: Muse Restaurant

Location: Pokolbin
Restaurant Open: Dinner Tuesday – Saturday
Cellar Door Open: Daily 10am – 5pm

When you think of Hunter Valley fine dining, Muse Restaurant at Hungerford Hill Winery instantly comes to mind. Opened in 2009 by Troy Rhoades-Brown, Muse has consistently earned acclaim as one of Australia’s finest regional dining spots, now boasting two Chef’s Hats from the Good Food Guide.

Their five-course set menu is carefully curated to highlight the best local ingredients, with a focus on seasonality and sustainability. What sets Muse apart for me is the balance between sophisticated flavors and an unpretentious atmosphere. You feel welcomed the moment you walk in, and the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows make every meal even more special.

The spring menu, in particular, is a standout. Ingredients are sourced from local farms, and you can truly taste the freshness in every bite. One of the highlights during my last visit was the Nagami cumquats and ruby grapefruits, which had been freshly harvested. The combination of seasonal fruit, heirloom vegetables, and quality meats such as Little Hill Farm chicken and Kinross lamb creates a thoughtful menu that reflects the essence of the Hunter Valley.

Practical Tip: If you’re planning to visit Muse, book well in advance, especially for the weekend tasting menu. Reservations can fill up fast. Also, if you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday, treat yourself to the six-course degustation paired with wines from the estate.

Hungerford Hill itself is an iconic name in the Hunter Valley, known for producing elegant and complex wines. Their tasting experiences are designed for all kinds of wine lovers—from casual drinkers to serious connoisseurs. The Epic Tasting Experience ($60 per person) is something I would highly recommend if you’re after something more immersive. This tasting pairs a selection of Hungerford Hill’s finest wines with bite-sized dishes from the Muse kitchen, allowing you to experience the synergy between food and wine.

The staff at Hungerford Hill are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you’re interested in learning about specific wine varieties or food pairings, they’re more than happy to guide you.

The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines

Location: Pokolbin
Restaurant Open: Friday to Tuesday for lunch, Friday & Saturday for dinner
Cellar Door Open: Daily

Dining at The Wood Restaurant at Brokenwood Wines is a quintessential Hunter Valley experience. With its European-inspired modern Australian menu and a passionate focus on local and seasonal produce, The Wood offers a perfect blend of flavors, elegance, and a casual, welcoming vibe.

Chef Sean Townsend heads up the kitchen, bringing years of experience and a love for regional produce to the table. One of the things I love most about The Wood is its dedication to using fresh ingredients, some of which come from the chef’s own garden on-site. The dishes are simple yet refined, with an emphasis on respecting the flavors of each component. It’s the kind of food that makes you want to savor every bite.

When I visited, I indulged in the four-course menu, which featured melt-in-the-mouth Hiramasa Kingfish, perfectly roasted Wollombi pumpkin, and tender Jack’s Creek beef. The real showstopper, however, was the elderflower parfait—a dessert that was light, fragrant, and utterly delicious.

Practical Tip: If you’re looking for a bit of flexibility, the restaurant offers an a la carte menu as well as the ‘Feed Me’ option, where the chef takes control and serves you a selection of dishes. It’s a great way to try a little bit of everything without having to make all the decisions yourself. The ‘Feed Me’ menu is perfect for group bookings or special occasions.

Before your meal, I highly recommend spending some time exploring Brokenwood’s cellar door. The Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz and ILR Reserve Semillon are iconic wines that any enthusiast should try at least once. What’s more, Brokenwood’s terrace wine bar offers a relaxed spot to enjoy a glass or two while soaking up the views of the vineyards.

If you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday evening for dinner, take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service that the restaurant offers. It’s a convenient and stress-free way to get to and from your accommodation, especially after a few glasses of wine!

EXP. Restaurant at Oakvale Wines

Location: Pokolbin
Restaurant Open: Thursday to Sunday
Cellar Door Open: Daily

For a unique and contemporary dining experience, look no further than EXP. Restaurant at Oakvale Wines. As the name suggests, this restaurant is all about the experience—whether it’s the imaginative dishes or the interactive dining atmosphere.

Chef Frank Fawkner has created a menu that takes traditional Hunter Valley flavors and elevates them with modern techniques and presentations. The dishes are innovative, surprising, and absolutely delicious. What I love about EXP. is that it’s an open kitchen, so you can see the chefs at work, adding to the excitement of the meal.

The tasting menu is a journey through bold flavors, and the presentation is nothing short of art. One dish that stood out to me was the wagyu beef paired with fermented vegetables—a combination of deep, rich flavors that stayed with me long after I finished eating.

Pro Tip: The tasting menu at EXP. is designed to be enjoyed over several hours, so make sure you allow plenty of time for your visit. Also, the restaurant has a no-menu approach—each course is a surprise, which adds an element of adventure to the experience.

Oakvale Wines is one of the oldest wineries in the region, known for its organic and biodynamic approach to winemaking. If you’re visiting for a tasting, be sure to try their Chardonnay and Tempranillo, both of which are fantastic examples of the quality wines produced in the Hunter.

Where to Stay in the Hunter Valley

Now that you’ve got your dining options sorted, let’s talk about where to stay during your Hunter Valley adventure. Here are ten recommendations that range from luxurious to budget-friendly, ensuring there’s something for every traveler.

• Chateau Elan at The Vintage: This luxurious resort features elegant suites, a world-class spa, and a stunning golf course. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a special occasion, Chateau Elan is a beautiful base for exploring the region.
• Spicers Vineyards Estate: A boutique hotel set in a vineyard, Spicers offers a tranquil retreat with beautifully appointed rooms, a gourmet restaurant, and indulgent spa treatments.
• Hunter Valley Resort: Offering a range of accommodations from cottages to hotel rooms, Hunter Valley Resort is centrally located and features its own winery and restaurant.
• The Convent Hunter Valley: A beautifully restored historic convent that now serves as a luxury accommodation option, complete with stunning gardens, a restaurant, and a bar. Perfect for those looking for a unique experience.
• Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley: This family-friendly resort features spacious rooms, a golf course, and a variety of dining options. It’s a great base for families and those looking to enjoy all the activities the Hunter Valley has to offer.
• Broke Fordwich B&B: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of wine country. Enjoy personalized service and a cozy atmosphere while being close to some of the best wineries in the area.
• Kirkton Park Hotel Hunter Valley: Set on 70 acres of landscaped gardens, this hotel offers stunning views and a peaceful environment. Perfect for relaxing after a day of wine tasting.
• The Mill at Broke: A boutique retreat featuring modern accommodations and beautiful surroundings. The Mill is ideal for couples seeking a romantic escape.
• The Glasshouse Hunter Valley: Offering modern and stylish accommodations with stunning vineyard views, The Glasshouse is perfect for those looking for a contemporary experience.
• Glen Eden Retreat: A serene escape nestled in the foothills of the Brokenback Range. Glen Eden offers spacious cabins and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with nature.

Things to Do While Visiting the Hunter Valley

In addition to wine tasting and dining, the Hunter Valley is brimming with activities that make your visit even more memorable. Here are ten recommendations for things to do while in the region.

• Hot Air Balloon Ride – Get a bird’s-eye view of the vineyards at sunrise.
• Hunter Valley Gardens – Stroll through 60 acres of beautifully themed gardens.
• Wine and Cheese Tasting Tour – Pair local wines with artisanal cheeses at various cellar doors.
• Spa Day at Château Élan – Treat yourself to a luxurious spa experience.
• Cooking Class at Majors Lane Cooking School – Learn to cook with local ingredients.
• Helicopter Wine Tour – For an unforgettable experience, take a helicopter ride between wineries.
• Segway Tours – Explore the vineyards on a guided Segway tour.
• Hunter Distillery – Try some locally crafted gin, vodka, and liqueurs.
• Horse Riding at Hunter Valley Horses – Enjoy a scenic ride through the vineyards.
• Concerts at Hope Estate – Check out their events calendar for live music in the vineyard.

Check out our articles for more info on Australian wines, including the best wine tours in Adelaide and the best wineries in Australia

Plus, we also covered the best wine tours in Margaret River and, top restaurants in Margaret. We’ve even put together a list of the seven best wineries in Margaret River for extra inspiration.